Hampshire police have reminded residents of the legal ramifications of breaking into cars to help dogs after saying a member of the public was "unjustified" in smashing a window to free a pet.

Officers were flagged down by a concerned member of the public at Romsey Corn Market at around 10.30am on April 1.

They found a dog had been locked inside the vehicle overnight, but determined it was not in immediate danger.

While officers were trying to find the owner and unlock the vehicle, a member of the public smashed the driver-side window.

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Hampshire police have clarified that this action was not fully justified, as the animal was not distressed at the time.

The dog was safely removed, unharmed, but the local dog warden has been informed and is considering additional action against the owner.

In a post on social media, officers reminded owners that leaving a pet in a vehicle for prolonged periods can be considered an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

They also stated that members of the public do not have an automatic legal right to break into a vehicle, even if they believe an animal is in danger.

A social media post from police said: "Doing so may lead to Criminal Damage charges."