In an interview on the program Expert's Opinion, Dr. Anne Almazar, PAWS Veterinarian, said that heat stroke in pets is considered “an emergency case all the time” as extreme temperatures continue to affect both humans and animals during the summer season.

“Ang heat stroke, in technical terms, it is a non-pyrogenic increase in body temperature which can cause multisystemic damages,” she explained.

"Very common, napapansin natin na signs ng mga pets na may heat stroke is yung panting… yung drooling, bright red na gums, restless na sila or aligaga na sila and of course pag hinawakan mo, sobrang init na po ng kanilang katawan.”

Almazar also explained the common signs of heat stroke in dogs and cats and stressed the importance of always keeping an eye on pets in order to quickly notice changes in their condition.

“Very common na mistake na ginagawa ng owners… yung binubuhusan ng ice cold na water o kaya niye-yelohan yung pet… dapat kasi talaga, active cooling,” she said.

She added, “Also, if mag-a-apply ka directly ng ice sa pet niyo, ang possible pang mangyari diyan, magkaroon sila ng thermal burns.”

She also emphasized that these common first-aid mistakes may worsen the situation, but still encouraged owners to immediately bring the animal to a veterinarian.

Moreover, brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs and French bulldogs, as well as long-haired pets, are more vulnerable to heat stroke, making it important to avoid walking them during extreme heat and to always provide fresh, cool water and cool resting areas.

In the end, Almazar reminded pet owners, stating, “We are the safe keepers of our pets,” emphasizing that proper care, hydration, and regular veterinary checkups are essential in protecting the health and safety of their fur babies during the summer season.