As the temperatures climb during the summer months, you probably do as much as you can to keep cool: crank the AC up, try to get to the pool and rid yourself of extra layers of clothing. If you’re a pet owner, you’re not the only one that needs to keep cool; just as overheating can be uncomfortable and even dangerous to people, your pets can also suffer in the heat. According to the vets at Liberty Township's Liberty Veterinary Hospital, there are some simple and easy ways to keep your pets cool when the temperatures are soaring.

So what do these experts recommend? Let’s take a quick look:

1. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car: As the Humane Society will tell you, it is never, ever appropriate to leave your dog in a car, even if it’s on with the AC running or windows are left open. Temperatures in cars can rise rapidly; even with windows open, on an 85-degree day, temperatures in the cabin can rise up to 120 degrees within only ten minutes.
2. Ample Shade and Water: Just like people, dogs and cats need more water when it’s hotter out; furthermore, a nice, shady area to relax in will greatly help keep them stay cool and safe.
3. Limit Exercise: On hot days, be more conservative with dog walks and outdoor play. Exercise your animal in the early morning or evening hours and be wary of signs of canine heatstroke, including excessive panting, extreme thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, vomiting, glazed-over eyes and difficulty breathing.

The team at Liberty Veterinary Hospital knows that you aren’t just a dog or cat “owner,” you’re a part of his or her family. Whether you need regular check-ups, pet boarding, grooming, dog training or all levels of vet care, there’s no better place to turn to.

To find out more pet care tips and a comprehensive listing of the services provided by Liberty Veterinary Hospital, check out their website and call the staff at (513) 755-9700 to set up an appointment.