THE RSPCA is investigating after two police dogs died when they were allegedly left in a dog handler's car during the heatwave.

The German shepherds were found in the car at Notts Police's headquarters in Arnold on Tuesday.

The Post understands the police dog handler was on duty but had called into the headquarters at Sherwood Lodge, Arnold and was in a private car.

It is unclear how long the dogs had been in the car on what was the hottest day in Notts for three years – with temperatures rising to 29.3 degrees celsius.

The RSPCA has launched an investigation into the incident.

A spokeswoman from the charity said: "We are investigating two dogs which have died in a hot car.

"When it's sunny or warm outside, we would urge dog owners not to leave a dog in a car. It can cause health problems and prove fatal. Temperatures can rise to 47 degrees celsius in a car quite quickly and that is enough to kill a dog."

A Notts police spokesman said: "Nottinghamshire Police reported the death of two German shepherd police dogs to the RSPCA on Tuesday, June 30, after they were discovered at force headquarters at 2.15pm.

"The incident has also been voluntarily referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

"The welfare of all animals owned by Nottinghamshire Police is of paramount importance and we endeavour to take every measure possible to ensure their well-being and safety."

The spokesperson said the force could not confirm any further details about the incident, but said no one had been suspended.

Notts Assistant Chief Constable Peter Davies said: ''This is a tragic incident and we value the important work our police dogs carry out on a daily basis. That is why we swiftly reported this incident to the RSPCA and we will be working with them very closely."

Coun John Clarke, Chairman of Nottinghamshire Police Authority, said: "This is a truly tragic incident. I am deeply disturbed to learn of the deaths of these police dogs, which play such a vital role in the fight against crime.

"The RSPCA has been informed and will, I am sure, carry out a thorough and speedy investigation.

''The authority has asked to be provided at the appropriate time with a full report into the circumstances.

"In the meantime we are requiring a guarantee from the force that measures are being put in place immediately to ensure that an incident like this can never happen again."

guy.woodford@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk