It might be raining cats and dogs outside, but for our four-legged friends, the rains can usher in a host of ailments and diseases. Protect your beloved pet this monsoon in these simple ways
While the cooling showers have done wonders for this sweltering city, pet owners are an anxious lot as the rains adversely affect the beloved pet’s health. Ask anyone who has a dog or cat at home, and they will tell you that rains bring a host of problems for the pets — fungal infections, skin problems and stomach ailments. With the moisture content in the atmosphere being on the higher side, pets can easily catch infections, leading to many ailments. Here’s how you can ensure that your bundle of fur and joy remains healthy and happy even when it’s raining cats and dogs outside.
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Mumbai monsoon special: Reign in the rains
Right from looking after your pets’ hygiene to ensuring that they get adequate exercise, the monsoons mean special care on our part
Hygiene matters
Whether it’s the utensils in which you serve your pet his/her food or the spot where they eat, ensure that they are both spic and span. “Try and serve fresh food and clean water to your pet. Contamination of food and water can lead to stomach infections,” says Dr Rupali Patkar, a veterinarian with Pluto Pet Clinic in Andheri. She also recommends that the utensils in which food is served should be cleaned and dried thoroughly before use. The pet’s eating area should also be cleaned regularly with a disinfectant.
Bath time
A bath every fortnight or so is a good practice to follow in the monsoon, says Dr Patkar. “After giving your pet a bath, dry them thoroughly to avoid fungal infections,” she adds.
There are chances that your dog might get wet in the rain. Use a towel or even a hair dryer to keep him warm and dry. “If you have taken your pet out for a walk, clean its paw pads with warm water and a dry cloth,” advises Dr Patkar. While taking your pet out for a walk, avoid overgrown grasses as they might be wet. Check them for fleas and ticks when you bring your pet in.
Prevent and protect
Ticks and fleas tend to attack pets more during monsoons, due to the rise in humidity. “Many good commercial products, including liquids and powders, are available in the market. Use them to get rid of the ticks and fleas,” suggests Dr Patkar. Worm infestation is a major cause of ailments such as anaemia, general dullness of coat and other problems. So, deworming your pets is a must during this season. Adult dogs and cats should be dewormed once in three months.
Treatments and cures
Just because it’s raining outside, doesn’t mean that you neglect your pets’ vaccination schedule. In fact, it becomes all the more important to ensure that they complete their vaccination. “In case they are undergoing some previous treatment, complete that as well,” says Dr Patkar. And last but not the least, do not self-medicate. “If your pet isn’t eating well, is vomiting or passing blood in their stool, rush to the veterinarian. Do not play the doctor,” she adds.
Be active
Just like us, even our pets tend to feel lethargic and lazy when it rains. Taking them out for a walk in the rains, too, comes with a risk of catching cold and infections. Indulge them in some indoor exercises and if you do take them out, make sure they are well-covered with a raincoat. There are plenty of raincoats available for your pets. Some fashion designers, too, have launched similar collections.
With adequate care, it is not too difficult to ensure your pets’ well-being no matter what the weather is like. So, come rain or sunshine, your pets’ health is in your hands.
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