DOGS should be kept away from Appleby Horse Fair to avoid them suffering heat stroke or getting trampled by horses, the RSPCA has warned.

The animal welfare charity says it is working with Cumbria Police on a ‘zero tolerance’ approach at the fair this year after two dogs were pulled out of hot cars during the 2012 event.

The historic gathering, which runs from today (Thursday) until June 12, is a Mecca for gypsies and travellers from all over Britain.

Hundreds of horses and ponies are traditionally brought to be traded at the fair but some travellers also bring their dogs. During last year’s fair, RSPCA inspectors gave two owners cautions after pulling their pets out of hot cars to prevent them suffocating.