Zookeepers and veterinarians at the Manila Zoo are on high alert due to the intense heat, which can lead to various diseases among animals. 

Dr. Dave Christopher Viñas, the zoo's resident veterinarian, said dehydration is a common issue during a heatwave.

"Lahat ng mga animal keeper natin on the look kung may nakikita sila mga nagpapant kung may nag show ng heatstroke signs whenever they show their teeth nagdudugo uncomfortable na that's one sign," he said.

To address the issue, the zoo administration has introduced a rest period for animals during the hottest part of the day, especially focusing on large felines like white Siberian tigers and lions. 

Philip Lopez, a veteran zookeeper, said that they ensure the animals' lairs are kept wet and moist.

“Sobrang mainit ang regular practice po namin tuwing summer season may time out mga alaga natin pag nasa viewing sila pinapapasok natin para magpahinga they can rest in the shade," he said.

Animals like ostriches, zebras, and deer seek relief from the heat by seeking shade under trees, while crocodiles and turtles submerge themselves in water to stay cool.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) recently rescued a stray dog named Benjie, who was weak and had paw injuries from the hot pavement. Viñas emphasized that if humans find it difficult to walk barefoot on hot pavements, it's even more challenging for animals.

“Their paws are like our palms so pag nasa semento po sila sobrang init ng semento with their weight kasama ng init it gets more injured or inflamed o ma-damage," he said.