DOG owners have been urged to leave their canine companions at home if they’re heading to next week’s Royal Welsh Agricultural Show (July 22 to 25).

Show go-ers are not permitted by event organisers to bring their dogs to the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, prompting concern by the RSPCA that some may be left inside a warm vehicle.

Unfortunately, dogs being left inside cars has been a problem at previous events – and the RSPCA has installed signage at the event highlighting the dangers, while officers will be on patrol keeping an eye out for dogs left in such a “dangerous, potentially fatal” situation.

RSPCA inspector Phil Lewis – who will be one of four RSPCA officers in attendance at the show – said: “The Royal Welsh Agricultural Show is an eagerly-anticipated event - and a big celebration of agriculture and animals from across the country.

“Dogs are not permitted by organisers to attend – and we really want to avoid a scenario where the show is spoilt by dogs being left in the dangerous, potentially fatal situation.

“Our message is simple: ‘not long is too long’ for a dog in a hot car.

“When a colleague spent just over 26 minutes in a stationary car last June, temperatures sky-rocketed from 23.3°C to more than 57°C degrees – and the dangerous temperatures can cause heatstroke, other complications, and even death.

“RSPCA signage is already up around the Showground highlighting the dangers - and our officers will be on patrol making sure dogs’ welfare aren't compromised.

“We urge all show go-ers to have a fantastic time at the Royal Welsh, but please don’t bring your dogs and put them at risk.”

RSPCA Cymru will again be meeting members of the public at the show, with their dedicated animal welfare stand based on Avenue C, at site number C206.

The stall, which will be promoting RSPCA Assured higher-welfare produce, will also be issuing gatepost signs to farmers to help tackle livestock worrying in Wales.

These signs - created in partnership by Animal Welfare Network Wales (AWNW) - are bright yellow, and aim to encourage dog owners to be mindful of farm animals while enjoying the countryside, ensuring dogs are kept on leads.

Sadly, RSPCA officers have recently had to undertake the rescue of stranded livestock, thought to have been frightened by dogs.

The charity will also be discussing with the agricultural community their hopes that future plans for post-Brexit farming support recognise the importance of higher animal welfare in food production.

Chris O’Brien, RSPCA public affairs and media manager, added: “This show falls at a really important time for Wales’ agricultural community – and the issues of livestock worrying, and post-Brexit farm support are high up on the RSPCA’s agenda. “We’re really keen to have as many conversations as possible with attendees at our stand on Avenue C. RSPCA staff will be in attendance all week – and we’re really excited.

“Livestock worrying is a serious animal welfare issue, and sadly the impacts on livestock have been seen by our officers again this year.

"It's great this issue is getting more attention at the moment, and we hope free gatepost signs - created in partnership with the Animal Welfare Network for Wales - will help raise awareness about responsible dog ownership around livestock. “The Show also falls with the Welsh Government consultation, Sustainable Farming and our Land, ongoing - which is focussed on post-Brexit farm support packages in Wales.

"We're eager for animal welfare to be at the heart of the new proposals, and look forward to discussing this with the rural community at this year's Royal Welsh.”

Pictured: RSPCA signage at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show.