Heat that scorches pavement and skin is now threatening Cebu’s household pets, prompting renewed warnings from city veterinarians.
Authorities are urging residents to protect their pets from extreme heat as temperatures continue to rise across Cebu.
The Cebu City Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries issued a public advisory on Saturday, April 11, reminding pet owners that animals are also vulnerable to heat-related stress.
“Protect your pets from the heat,” the agency said, stressing that high temperatures can lead to dehydration and overheating.
Among the key recommendations is ensuring pets have constant access to clean, cool drinking water to prevent dehydration.
Pet owners were also advised to avoid walking animals during peak heat hours, particularly at midday, and instead schedule walks early in the morning or late in the evening.
The agency urged residents to provide shaded or indoor resting areas, noting that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can quickly lead to overheating.
It also warned against leaving pets inside parked vehicles, even for short periods, as temperatures inside can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
As an added measure, the DVMF suggested giving pets cooling treats, such as frozen, pet-safe snacks, to help regulate body temperature.
The advisory comes as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned of intensifying heat conditions in the coming weeks.
Weather specialist Jhomer Eclarino said current temperatures mark the onset of the dry season, with hotter days expected through April and May.
Data showed heat indices in Central Visayas have already reached 37°C as of April 5, with forecasts indicating prolonged dry conditions and less than a 50 percent chance of rain in the coming days.
Eclarino warned that heat index levels could enter the “danger” category in the coming weeks, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Historical data showed the region recorded heat indices of up to 42°C in April and as high as 44°C in May last year.
PAGASA earlier placed the country under an El Niño watch, indicating a 62 percent probability of development between June and August, which could further intensify heat conditions.
Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to protect both people and animals as temperatures continue to climb. (LLP)
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