Is your pet experiencing heatstroke? A vet explains

The summer heat is not only taking a toll on humans but on animals, too.

According to a 24 Oras report by Corinne Catibayan on Monday, several netizens have been posting about their pets’ struggles with the summer season's hot weather.

Dr. Keith Dela Cruz, the owner of Petropolis Nuvali Clinic, said heatstroke is common in animals during this period due to the sweltering temperatures.

“Mas prone do’n ‘yung matataba na aso o ‘yung malalaki. Kung nasa loob ng bahay pero do’n sa loob ng room ay walang ventilation, puwede pa ring ma-heat stroke,” he explained.

Dela Cruz added that pet owners should watch out for the following signs to know if their pets may be suffering from the heat.

“‘Pag nakikita mo na it’s beginning to pant, tapos nagsa-salivate siya, medyo weak, tapos ‘yung breathing niya… makikita mo may abdominal breathing do’n sa tiyan, ‘yung mabilis, and then sometimes they just lie down with the belly touching the ground kasi ang gusto nila, ma-refresh ‘yung temperature ng katawan nila,” he said.

There are also some ways to help your pet feel better amid the heat, according to Dela Cruz.

“If possible, kung merong electric fan… ‘yun yung makakatulong, also sa shade puwede. We should provide clean, cool water always. Lalo na sa ganitong summer temperature,” he said. — Julia Mari Ornedo/DVM, GMA News