Monsoon in India brings relief from the heat. But frequent rains can give a headache to pet owners, especially new pet parents in India. Monsoon can cause various hygienic and health issues, including infections, for our furry friends. That is why monsoon pet care for dogs becomes essential for keeping pets clean, happy, and healthy. This blog will guide you with easy monsoon dog care tips, dos and don’ts, real vet tips, and expert advice—made especially for Indian pet parents.
Why Monsoon Care for Dogs Is Important?
Monsoon offers loads of water everywhere. From puddles to high humidity to wet floors, everything can cause the following issues in pets.
- Skin and fur infections
- Fungal growth (especially in paws and folds)
- Ticks and fleas
- Ear and paw problems
- Stomach bugs from drinking dirty water
No issues! Pet owners can still keep their pets safe and comfortable with extra care and hygiene.
Rainy Season Dog Care Dos and Don’ts
Some dog breeds are prone to monsoon-acquired diseases. Dog owners can try out the following tips to maintain their dogs’ health during the rainy season.
Skin & Fur Care
Your dog’s skin is very sensitive during the monsoon. Owing to the moisture around, pets may experience bad odor, fungal infections, or irritation.
Do’s:
- Brush pets daily. Keep furs loose.
- Dry them well with hair dryers or towels after every walk or bath.
- Keep fur trimmed short.
- Use antifungal shampoo to clean pets.
Don’t:
- Never leave your dog’s fur wet—it can lead to infection.
- Don’t bathe too often—it can remove natural oils.
Vet Tip: “Dry coat, trimmed fur, and clean bedding are vital during the rains,” says Dr. Parshant Kumar (Max Pet Clinic). (Hindustan Times)
Paw Hygiene
Your dog’s paws are in direct contact with rainwater, mud, and dirty streets. They can experience fungal infections and cuts.
Do’s:
- Use pet-safe wet wipes after every walk.
- Trim hair between paw pads. It will help in avoiding mud and moisture build-up.
- Apply lubricants and paw balm to prevent dryness or cracks.
- If pets feel comfortable, use waterproof pet dog shoes.
Don’t:
- Don’t allow pets to roam freely in muddy areas.
- Avoid skipping paw cleaning.
Vet Insight: A 2023 study showed over a 60% increase in paw infections during the Indian monsoon. (Dogsee Chew)
Fungal Infections & How to Prevent Them
Moisture and humidity invite fungal infection. During the rains, infection can be caused by itchy skin and red patches.
Do’s:
- Dogs can sweat. Sprinkle antifungal powder in the right places.
- Wash pet bedding at least once a week. Dry it properly.
- Try pet-safe disinfectants.
Don’t:
- Don’t ignore scratching or redness; it is time to see a vet.
- Never apply human creams without vet advice.
Vet Insight: “Check paws and ears daily. Any redness or smell needs an immediate vet visit,” says Dr. Bhanu Pratap (Sharda University). (HT Article)
Walk Timing & Outdoor Safety
Dogs can’t be restricted indoors due to rain. Smart pet owners take their pets outdoors too during the rainy season.
Do’s:
- Choose walk times between showers when it’s dry.
- Use a light dog raincoat and reflective leash/harness.
- Takes pets on short walks.
- After every walk, clean dog’s paws and underbelly.
- Keep pets away from thick grass.
Don’t:
- Stop your pets from reaching puddles and drinking from them. It may invite leptospirosis.
- No long walks during monsoon, especially heavy rain.
Extra Tip: Always take a small towel or paw wipe while moving outdoors.
Overall Health and Vet Care
Monsoon can restrict pets inside; this inactivity may result in fatigue and laziness in pets.
Do’s:
- Check pet vaccination cards frequently.
- Gives pets only clean water.
- Feed pets nutritious food during the monsoon.
- Keep the first-aid kit always ready.
Don’t:
- Never use human medicine without asking your vet.
- Don’t skip your dog’s health check-ups.
Indian Breeds Most Vulnerable During Monsoon
This table shows breeds that are more vulnerable during monsoon due to their floppy ears, wrinkled skin, thick coats, and breed genetics. This rainy season, pets with folded ears can experience yeast and bacterial growth. Wrinkled skin can lead to bacterial and fungal infections. Double coats can face fungus. Some breeds with genetic issues can face yeast overgrowth.
Breed | Why at Risk | Key Issues |
Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, and Golden Retriever | Floppy ears retain moisture and heat | Fungal ear infections |
Pug and Bulldog | Crumpled skin folds and flat faces amass moisture | Skin fold infections, yeast buildup, and ear infections |
Indian Spitz and Pomeranian (small, thick-coated breeds) | Thick fur carries moisture, prone to mats | Skin infections, hot spots, and fungal rashes |
Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso, Dachshund, and Basset Hound | Breed predispositions to yeast infections | Yeast dermatitis, skin and ear fungal issues |
Conclusion
It is not hard to give excellent care to dogs during the monsoon. Try out the above shared monsoon dog care tips to keep big issues at bay. These tips are for all new as well as old pet owners in India.