The monsoon is a tricky time for pets, as rain showers and high levels of moisture in the atmosphere can lead to many infections or other problems. Keeping our pets dry is the key objective for the season and here are some things you should know:
Washed up: So it’s a nice and sunny day and your pet goes out for a walk. Suddenly it starts pouring and now your pet reaches home completely wet. What is key to know here is to clean your pet a little before drying them off thoroughly. The most advisable action is to give your pet a plain water bath. Lukewarm water works better, as it helps to reduce the drop in body temperature due to the weather. After this, you give them a good rub down with a towel. Please note, hairdryers come in very handy this season, especially if your pooch has long fur. For breeds with long fur, dirt clots can increase the risk of allergies, and so should be more thoroughly groomed. Extra care must always be taken to dry paws as they contain sweat glands through which the passage of the infection will be quicker.
Keep it dry: Play close attention to keeping your pets coat and paws dry in such weather. Being exposed to very high levels of moisture can easily lead to skin infections, bad odour and inflammation of the paws.
Watch out for ticks and lizards: This is a big one! Yes, with all this moisture in the air and stagnant water that collects on the streets, conditions are perfect for breeding season. You have to take extra care to ensure your pets don’t get ticks, and if they do, take appropriate measures to get rid of them. Tick collars and shampoos are advisable, but do speak to your vet to know what products are best for your breed. You even have to be careful of frogs and lizards that tend to come out more in this type of weather. Your pet may run to one of these animals while playing in the park and may get bit as a result. These bites can be poisonous, and so it is imperative to consult a vet as soon as possible.
A tight leash: It’s always a good idea to keep your pets on a shorter leash during these months. It helps to keep them from running into big puddles of water, or even drinking from these puddles. This water can be contaminated, as our sewage systems tend to overflow due to excessive rain. Consult a vet if your pup starts showing signs of poisoning. Also, with sudden or loud thunder and lightning, animals can get frightened and dash off in fear. Keep them close, or better yet don’t take them out in bad weather.
Have fun: Many dogs love to get wet or swim. For these water lovers, you should let them loose in the rain as often as you like. What is advisable is to do it on a day you plan to bathe them.
The writer is Devanshi Shah, Founder PetKonnect
