Multiple dogs have been rescued from hot cars as temperatures begin to soar into the 30s across the state.
The RSPCA confirmed there had been two incidences in the past week that required inspectors to break into vehicles in order to remove dogs from vehicles.
One of them happened in Northern Tasmania.
He said there had also been several calls about dogs locked in vehicles and urged people to never leave their dog unattended in a car, even for a short time.
Head vet, Doctor Andrew Byrne from St Helens Veterinary Clinic, said a dog can overheat in a car within minutes, even in mild temperatures.
"It's predictably dangerous, cars heat up really quickly. This is the lesson I don't think people are learning, even in 20 degrees," he said.
"From the people who find their dog excessively panting, drooling, or see pale gums and restlessness - these symptoms can be reversed quite easily at home.
"More severe signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, not being able to walk, seizures, collapsing or unconsciousness - you may not be able to cool them down yourself."
But the risk of overheating wasn't unique to a dog in a car, it can happen to any animal in a kennel, on the end of a lead or at home in a small space.
"The worst thing you can do is lock an animal in a small space where there is no air flow and high humidity - they can't cool down," Dr Byrne said.
"They can die on the end of a chain during a hot day."
Dr Byrne said some dogs were more susceptible to death by heat exhaustion than others, especially if they were older, overweight or long-haired.
"Dogs with a squished up face, like Boxers and Bulldogs, require a lot more space and air flow than a Jack Russell, Terrier or Kelpie," he said.
"Really small puppies are highly susceptible because they haven't yet developed proper thermoregulation, they don't know to hide in the shade."
What you can do
RSPCA Tasmania Chief Inspector Jayden Stirrup said he wanted pet owners to think ahead and make responsible choices for their animals this summer.
"Leaving your dog at home when heading out to run errands is a simple step that can prevent unnecessary suffering and potentially save their life," he said.
"They depend on us to make the right decisions for their well-being. As the weather warms up, please think twice before leaving your dog in the car.
"Plan ahead, make the safe choice and do the right thing by your best mate."
Under the Animal Welfare Act 1993, authorised officers, including RSPCA inspectors, have powers to force entry into a vehicle and seize an animal to prevent further harm.
Depending on the circumstances, further enforcement action, substantial fines or court appearances may also follow.