Monsoons have arrived, and we are taking all the necessary care for ourselves – from food, clothing to health and skin and hair care. But let’s not side line our furry and four-legged pals who are equally affected by the monsoons. Your pet also requires special care during the rainy season. From their diet to health, small adjustments and changes can make for a safer monsoon season for them. Pets are our responsibility and hence, we must make necessary preparation to protect the harmful effects of rainy season. Cold, fever, flue, cough are major diseases common in both human and pet during the monsoon shower.

Ways to Take Care of Your Pets

1 Pat Them Dry: A wet coat or fur is a nesting ground for fleas and skin infections. Your pet may get wet now and then when strolling around the neighbourhood. Be sure to pat him dry after the wet walk. Dirt and dampness of the fur is like an open invitation to skin infections. One common type found in dogs is Malassezia found in the folds of the skin, ear canals, armpits and paws. Also, dry baths are recommended in place of the usual water bath to prevent the pet from more dampness.

2 Clean Paws: in rainy season, ground and floor are full of infected germs. Paws are sensitive area of the body and easily become the vector of diseases. Pet owners should clean the paws including the space between the toes each time your dog comes from outdoors. Dog shoes may also come handy each time your pet steps out for his walk. Use warm water and a soft towel or pet wipes to clean the paws of the pet.

3 Healthy Diet Plan: During rains your pet may not get too many opportunities to go out for walks. Hence, it is better to reduce the food intake to protect them of becoming overweight and unhealthy. Dry or canned food is not good for your pets as it may lead to digestive disorders and gastroenteritis problems. Avoid feeding your pet excess of meat, chicken and oily food as it can upset the pet’s stomach. The diet should consist of fibre-rich food such as banana that help pets who suffer from indigestion. Along with healthy food, offer the pet boiled and filtered drinking water to avoid stomach infections.

4 Indoor Exercises: You can run up and down the stairway with your pet, this can compensate for the lack of long walks. Play a game of fetch or frisbee at home where you can find maximum space.

5 Grooming Routine: Often the moisture collects in closed ears and can cause ear infections, hence, moisture needs to be wiped off. A regular grooming routine includes clipping of nails, ear cleansing and dental check-ups.

Prevention is always better than cure. Make sure that you take these precautionary measures so that your pet enjoys the rains to the fullest. Some pets also suffer from anxiety during a thunderstorm. They start to shiver or indulge in excessive chewing. Ask your vet to prescribe some anti-anxiety drugs to calm them down. But most importantly make them feel safe and comfortable by hugging them and keeping them cosy.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 27, 2018 08:50 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).