Since 1971, Daryl Meyerrenke has worked towards improving and promoting Animal Welfare. His business, Family Pet Center now includes not only retail pet supplies and feed,  but dog obedience classes, dog boarding and daycare facilities and professional grooming services as well. Serving Anderson Township and the surrounding areas, Family Pet Center truly cares about animals and makes it their business to educate owners on responsible pet care. Here are some tips to keep pets cool when the temperatures are high:

• Limit outdoor exercise: Take walks during the cooler parts of the day, like the early morning. Your pet's stamina in hot weather will most likely be a lot lower than usual, so take plenty of breaks in the shade. Don't forget to bring water. Your dog might even enjoy a cold bath afterwards.

• Never leave animals in a parked car: Temperatures soar very quickly in a car, even if you're only gone for a minute and the window is open. The consequences could be deadly, and include heatstroke, brain damage and organ failure. If you see an animal in a hot car, try to locate the car's owner by asking the nearest business or security guard to make an announcement. If not possible, call either animal control or the non-emergency number of the local police. Make a note of the car's make, model and license plate number.

• Keep cool indoors and outdoors: Fans aren't as effective at keeping pets cool as they are for humans. Adding ice cubes to a pet's water dish is a good way to keep cool, provided they're wet all over to prevent sticking. You might also consider purchasing a cooling body wrap (similar to an ice pack, but larger).

• Avoid taking your pet outside when it's too humid. High humidity makes it even harder for animals to cool themselves, as panting works by evaporating moisture. This is difficult  when the air is already full of moisture.

For more information about pet safety, or to inquire about their services and pet supplies, call Family Pet Center at (513) 231-7387, or visit the website.