Watch Out for Heat Stress and Pet Bite Risks as Temperatures Rise, DOH Warns

As temperatures continue to rise across the country, the Department of Health (DOH) urges families to take extra care of both children and pets. With heat index levels reaching dangerous highs, health officials warn that this season brings two major concerns: heat-related illness in people and a higher risk of animal bites linked to heat stress in pets.

According to PAGASA, Metro Manila recorded heat index levels of up to 38°C from April 8 to 9. This falls under the “Extreme Caution” category, where heat cramps and heat exhaustion are more likely, and prolonged exposure can quickly escalate into heatstroke.

The DOH Metro Manila Center for Health Development reminds families that heat-related illnesses are preventable, but only when early signs are recognized and addressed quickly.

Heat cramps often appear as muscle pain or spasms, especially in the legs or stomach, and usually follow physical activity in hot environments. Heat exhaustion can develop when the body loses too much fluid, especially when children or adults do not drink enough water during long periods outdoors. Symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and weakness.

Heatstroke is the most serious condition and requires emergency care. It happens when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, leading to dangerously high internal heat. Warning signs include confusion, fainting, and unusual behavior changes that should never be ignored.

The DOH encourages consistent hydration throughout the day, not just when thirst starts. Water is strongly preferred over sugary drinks, soda, iced tea, or coffee, which can contribute to dehydration. Parents are also advised to plan activities around cooler parts of the day, ideally before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when sun exposure is less intense.

Also read: How Much Water Should You Drink a Day? Here’s a Chart for Water Intake

Children should wear light, breathable clothing. Parents can also help protect them by using hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen when going outdoors. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if the child is sweating or swimming. Keeping children in shaded or well-ventilated areas whenever possible also helps lower the risk of heat-related illness.

The advisory also highlights an often-overlooked concern: pets. According to the DOH, animals struggle even more in extreme heat because they do not sweat the way humans do. As a result, they can become quickly overheated, restless, and irritable.

The DOH added that animals struggle even more in extreme heat because they do not sweat the way humans do. As a result, they can become quickly overheated, restless, and irritable.

Also read: A Dog is More Likely to Bite in the Summer. What to Do If a Dog Bites Your Child

For pet owners, the DOH recommends treating heat safety as part of daily caregiving. Pets should always have access to fresh, clean water and cool resting spaces. Homes should provide shaded or well-ventilated areas, with tile floors or cooling mats when possible. Walks and playtime are best scheduled in the early morning or evening, avoiding midday heat entirely.

Parents are also reminded to supervise interactions between children and pets more closely during hot days, when both may be more easily irritated. Never leave pets inside parked cars, even for a short time, as temperatures can become dangerous within minutes.

In a season where heat affects every member of the household, the DOH emphasizes that awareness, routine adjustments, and simple preventive habits can make a difference in keeping families safe.

Click here for simple at-home summer activity ideas.