Summer is a time of fun in the sun. But summer health risks for pets are a reality, especially with rising temperatures due to climate change, the way urban spaces like Metro Manila are built, and other seasonal challenges.

We’ll look at some common summer health risks for pets in the Philippines and how you, as a fur parent, can help your fur babies enjoy the season.

Heat-Related Risks for Pets

Problems due to high heat are the most common pet health issues your fur babies will encounter during the summer. Your pet doesn’t have to be a breed meant for cold climates, like Malamutes, Huskies, Chow Chows, and Maine Coons. Most common pets like cats and dogs already run warm, and when the mercury rises, they may encounter problems.

The most common issue is heatstroke. Most animals, especially common house pets, have problems regulating their body temperatures, unlike humans. Even heat that’s uncomfortable for the average Filipino might already be dangerous for your pets. Watch out for heavy panting, a rapid heartbeat, and vomiting. Heat exhaustion is also fairly common and may affect your pets before they develop heatstroke.

Given how urban centers like Metro Manila are full of concrete and unshaded ground, pets can suffer foot injuries from stepping on sidewalks and other areas made very hot by the summer sun. Unlike human feet, the footpads of dogs and cats can get seriously harmed by stepping on sun-baked ground. The rule of thumb is that if the ground is painful for you to step on barefoot, it is dangerous for your pets.

Pets can also be more susceptible to dehydration during the summer because of the way many of them get water. While dogs can be relied on to gulp entire buckets of water when thirsty, cats evolved to get a good amount of the water they need from their food so they might forget to drink often. Make sure to keep water sources filled where they hang out or pass by so they can hydrate when they feel thirsty.

Parasites and Infestations

Summer is also a time when parasites like ticks become a common problem for pets. Even if you go on walks and jogs with your dogs or cats, they can get infested with these pests without coming into contact with other animals. Rolling on grass or ground where an infested dog or cat even just sat or slept could be enough to spread the problem.

This becomes a bigger issue the fluffier your pet is. Animals with longer or more elaborate coats can more easily host a colony of parasites than their short-haired cousins. Aside from the discomfort, many parasites transmit diseases or can even cause certain kinds of toxic reactions.

Toxic Plants to Watch Out For

Although the Philippines doesn’t have a spring season, summer is often the time many plants bloom, especially flowering plants. While these may be pretty to look at and many are cultivated as ornaments, some plants could pose a danger to your cats and dogs if they chew or even touch them during walks.

One of the most toxic is the sago palm, which is dangerous for both dogs and cats. Every part of the plant, especially the seeds, contains a toxin that can lead to liver failure. Unfortunately, it’s quite common as an ornamental plant. Its most telling feature is a yellow, corn-like structure at the center of its fronds.

Other toxic plants include aloe vera, anthurium, dracaena, elephant ears, and many orchids.

How to Protect Your Pets This Summer

While you can do preventive measures and fast first aid can deal with most of these risks, the very nature of pets means you might need professional help. The good news is that there are more animal clinics now, some are even open 24/7. The bad news is emergency pet care can be very costly.

Fortunately for fur parents, pet insurance is now offered in the Philippines. Coverage provided by these plans includes reimbursement for vet costs, accident insurance, and easy access to vet clinics.

Depending on the provider, pet insurance can also offer add-ons like illness coverage, dental benefits, international travel health insurance, liability coverage if your pet harms someone, and compensation for loss due to theft or accidental death.

Learn more about the benefits of pet insurance through Reliable Insurance Brokers. Reliable Insurance Brokers are also ready to help you choose the best policies for your fur babies so they stay safe and healthy during the summer. Contact us today.

Contact Information for Inquiries and Support

If you have any questions or need assistance with your insurance, feel free to reach out to us:

• Call: +63 2 8631 9285 to 86
• Mobile: +63 917 138 5120
• Email: info@reliable-insurance.ph
• Messenger: m.me/reliable.insurancebrokersph

Sources:

• The Freeman (2018, April 14), Most Common Summer Dangers for Pets.
• Highland Park Animal Hospital (No Date), 8 Summertime Hazards Pet Owners Need to Have on Their Radar.
• Pawsh (2021, April 15), Common Filipino Household Plants Poisonous to Dogs.
• Purina (2025, October 30), Plants Poisonous to Cats.