THE discovery of someone leaving their dogs in a hot car all day is cause for concern for Roma vet Abby Hayward.

A concerned resident, who did not wish to be identified, found two dogs locked in a car outside the gym on Quintin St late last week, albeit with the windows wound down slightly.

The person said they had waited around for a half hour with no sight of the owner.

Dr Hayward said leaving dogs in a car, regardless of the season, was putting the animal at risk.

"A dog left unattended can be prone to get heat stress and heat stroke," she said.

"It can result in really severe results and multiple organ damage.

"Dogs don't have sweat glands like we do - they have a smaller amount on their paws, but all they can do is pant."

Dr Hayward said she would not leave her dog unattended for longer than 15 minutes, suggesting leaving the air-conditioning on while out of the car.

"As an owner, you have a responsibility for the welfare of an animal," she said.