Vet-Approved Tips to Keep Pets Safe Amid The Summer Heat
METRO MANILA – Dry season is officially here, and temperatures are rising up to 42°C, according to recent PAG-ASA reports. While it’s important for pet parents to stay cool and safe indoors, they should also take special care of their furry friends.
According to the resident veterinarian at Jads4 Animal Clinic and Dr. Shiba vet ambassador, Dr. Roxanne Ignacio, pet parents should follow these best practices to help their beloved pets beat the heat:
Never keep pets in parked vehicles.
Opening the windows won’t spare furry friends from potential heat stroke or worse during hot days. Temperatures in vehicles can rise to lethal levels even on a relatively warm day. It’s best to take your pets with you if you go out or leave them at home in a well-ventilated area to keep them cool and ensure their safety and comfort.
Provide pets with fresh, clean water all day.
Pets get dehydrated quickly on hot and humid days. Their water bowls should be placed in a cool, shady area for their safety. Fresh water should be available whether pets are at home, in the garden, or on a walk.
Avoid walking pets midday.
Pets shouldn’t be forced to exercise when it’s too hot and humid. Outdoor exercise should be done early in the morning or at night for their safety. Pet parents should be discerning when it comes to how hot the ground is. If the asphalt on the road is too hot, pets should wear protective booties. They can also walk on grass instead.
Be wary of overheating symptoms.
Like humans, pets can get overheated. Pet parents should check for signs of overheating, such as difficulty breathing, excessive panting, mild weakness, restlessness, and drooling.
Pets with thick fur, larger breeds, or brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds are more prone to overheating. That’s why pet owners with these types of pets should be extra mindful of how they are doing.
Switch to a summer-friendly diet.
Nutrition plays a key role in pets’ overall wellness, especially amid the heat wave. Adding water to pet food like Dr. Shiba’s Kind Kibble can provide balanced nutrition while keeping them hydrated. “Checking the ingredients is a must for pet parents who want to provide the best care amid the ongoing heat wave,” Dr. Ignacio said. “What I like about Kind Kibble is that it’s made with real beef and superfoods rich in antioxidants, providing dogs with balanced daily nutrition to beat the heat.”
Pet owners can also add Dr. Shiba’s Wild Salmon Oil to pets’ meals. Wild Salmon Oil can boost pets’ immune system and improve their heart health. It can also enhance pets’ skin and coat health.
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About Dr. Shiba
Dr. Shiba, founded in 2022, is Southeast Asia's leading holistic pet wellness company with a mission to upgrade and enrich the everyday life of furry family members by providing functional products tailored to support their health and well-being. Beginning with their flagship line of functional dog treats, the company has expanded to offer a comprehensive range of wellness solutions for both dogs and cats under their Dr. Shiba and Prof. Bengal brands, most recently launching Kind Kibble premium dog food featuring real meat and natural superfoods.
Currently operating across multiple Southeast Asian markets with headquarters in the Philippines, Dr. Shiba has achieved remarkable growth, serving over 500,000 customers and reaching more than 1,500 retail locations through partnerships with major retail chains. The company has received multiple industry awards for innovation and excellence while maintaining its commitment to animal welfare through partnerships with organizations like the Pawssion Project. All products are scientifically formulated with veterinary experts and manufactured using state-of-the-art technology, ensuring premium quality, all-natural ingredients that deliver real results for pets' health and well-being.