RSPCA prosecutor Senior Inspector Daniel Bode said the two Anatolian Shepherd dogs were left in the sun without water and would have suffered severely.

“One of the dogs was tethered and had no escape from the sun or access to cool water; the other was loose in the yard but had no access to shade or cool water, and was found dead at the back door of the premises,” he said.

The man was found guilty of five counts of animal cruelty, fined $1000 and disqualified from dog ownership for 12 months in Frankston Magistrates Court on Monday.

Senior Inspector Bode said this case showed the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“Death by dehydration is distressing and painful and this case is a timely reminder to all animal carers to ensure they provide plenty of cool water, ventilation and adequate shade as the weather warms up,” he said.

“Animal carers need to make sure they provide plenty of water for their animals and that they take into account the possibility of spillage and movement of shade.

“All animals are susceptible to dehydration, but we remind people that smaller animals, like mice, birds, rabbits and guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable,” said Mr Bode.

RSPCA Victoria investigated 12,002 complaints of cruelty during the 2015-16 financial year and charges were laid in 1,146 cases.