Seven tips to keep your pets safe and healthy in the rainy season

With the monsoon having finally set in, the scorching heat of the Indian summer, made worse by climate change and deforestation, is behind us, but pet owners face new challenges in keeping their wards safe and healthy. While the rains bring welcome relief for pets and their owners from the heat and dust, they also bring skin infections and moisture-induced diseases that compromise the animals’ health and hygiene. Here are seven simple tips to follow to ensure your cats and dogs can enjoy the rainy season in a safe and healthy manner.

Regular grooming: Grooming removes mud and germs from your pet’s coat and skin. Keeping the nails trimmed prevents the dog hurting itself by scratching. This is important because the atmospheric humidity can make your dog’s fur a breeding ground for bacteria, as they thrive in a moist environment.

Timely deworming: Many monsoon-related illnesses are caused by parasites. You can avoid these by deworming and deticking your pet regularly. Consult your veterinarian for anti-fungal powders and tick and flea repellents. Ticks are attracted to wet areas, so avoid grassy areas, wet leaf piles, and dense vegetation when walking your dog.

Adequate shelter: If your pets live outdoors, ensure they have dry, comfortable shelters that are raised off the ground and sheltered from wind and rain. If possible, bring them indoors during heavy rain and thunderstorms. Make sure their bedding is dry. Always check that it is clean, dry, and away from cold draughts of wind. Throw in a blanket for extra warmth and coziness. Ensure that the resting areas are free of bugs and insects.

Paw protection: Wet paws can make dogs susceptible to infection and slipping. You can protect your dogs’ paws with rain boots or paw wax. You can also wipe them with a towel after walks to make them dry and clean.

Indoor exercises: Though heavy rains may limit outdoor activities, keep your pets active and mentally stimulated with indoor activities like puzzle games, interactive toys, and training exercises.

Rain accessories: If you do decide to take your pets outside on a rainy adventure, preparing them with rain gear will help to keep the experience safe and comfortable. Consider using waterproof accessories like raincoats and umbrellas to keep their fur dry.

Healthy diet: Lastly, be mindful of their diet at all times. A healthy diet can help to keep your pets from falling sick and prevent diseases like diabetes and obesity.

Caution: Information in news reports, press releases, or articles on TheSnout.in is not intended to serve as a medical opinion or advice. Do not attempt to treat yourself or your pets without consulting the appropriate medical professional.

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