Monsoon care for pets

The rains bring relief from heat and a new set of jobs: damp, mud, insects and food that spoils quickly.

Keep the pet dry

• Dry your dog well with a towel after every wet walk, most of all the paws, between the toes, the ears and the belly.
• Keep a spare set of dry bedding and change it as soon as it feels damp.
• Do not leave a wet coat to dry by itself: damp skin and ears cause trouble.

Clean paws

• Wipe paws after walks. Puddles and wet streets carry dirt and chemicals that a dog will later lick off.
• Keep the hair between the paw pads trimmed.
• Do not let pets drink from puddles.

Ticks, fleas and mosquitoes

• Check the coat with your fingers after walks, mainly around the ears, neck and between the toes.
• Ask your vet which tick and flea control suits your pet, and keep to the schedule. Never use a dog product on a cat.
• Empty standing water around the house so mosquitoes do not breed.

Food and hay

• Store dry pet food in an airtight box. Do not use food that smells musty.
• Keep hay for rabbits and guinea pigs dry and off the floor. Throw away any that is damp or mouldy.
• Wash greens well.

Exercise on wet days

• Play indoors: fetch along a corridor, hide-and-seek with treats, a few minutes of training.
• Go out during breaks in the rain, and keep walks short during thunder.

Thunder

Many dogs fear thunder. Let the dog stay in a quiet inner room, close the curtains and stay calm yourself. See also fireworks and loud noise.

This is a care guide, not veterinary advice. It covers housing, food, routine and safety. It does not diagnose or treat illness. If your pet seems unwell, is hurt or behaves differently, take it to a qualified veterinarian without delay.