The sound of rain is soothing for us, but for our dogs and cats, the humidity and dampness can cause real problems. We need to become extra vigilant (chaukanna) to protect them from sickness and discomfort.

1. Comfort and Shelter (Aaram aur Suraksha)

• Dry Home is a Happy Home: Make absolutely sure your pet has a dry, warm, and comfortable corner to rest. Damp floors are an open invitation for nasty fungal infections.
• Keep the Bedding Dry: If your pet’s bed is on the floor, put a plastic sheet (tarpaulin) or a thick mat underneath to prevent moisture from seeping up. A dry bed is essential for good health.

2. Grooming and Hygiene (Saj-Dhaj aur Safai)

• Regular Brushing is Key: Humid air can quickly cause your pet’s fur to matt (gaanth padna). Brush them daily to remove moisture and check for any hidden dampness that can lead to skin problems.
• Bathing: Bathe your pet only when necessary, but when you do, dry them absolutely thoroughly—use towels and a hair dryer (on a low, warm setting) until there’s no moisture left.
• Ear Care is Crucial: Floppy-eared dogs (like Labradors or Spaniels) are highly prone to ear infections because moisture gets trapped. Clean their ears gently and keep them dry at all times.

3. Protecting Their Paws (Panjon ki Dekhbhaal)

• Clean Paws After Walks: When your dog comes in from outside, the first thing you must do is wipe their paws with a dry, clean cloth to remove mud, germs, and stagnant water residue.
• Check for Injuries: The muddy ground can hide sharp stones or glass. Check their paws regularly for any small cuts, wounds, or redness (a sign of infection).

4. Diet, Water, and Immunity (Khana, Paani, aur Shakti)

• Boost Immunity: Give them a nutritious, balanced diet to keep their natural resistance strong against monsoon germs. Ask your vet if they need any monsoon-specific supplements.
• Clean Water Always: Contaminated water is a major risk during the rains. Ensure your pet only drinks fresh, clean water from a bowl you clean daily.

5. Exercise and Play (Khel-kood aur Tayaari)

• Indoor Fun is Essential: On days when it’s pouring, don’t let your pet get bored and restless. Engage them with indoor games, puzzle toys, and short training sessions. A tired pet is a happy pet!
• Safe Walks: If you do go out, keep walks short and avoid heavy rain and waterlogging. Use a dog raincoat (barsati) or umbrella if needed.

6. War Against Parasites (Keede-Makodon se Bachao)

• Flea and Tick Attack: Fleas, ticks, and other pests thrive in the humidity of the monsoon. Make sure their preventative medicine (spot-ons, tablets, etc.) is up-to-date.
• Daily Inspection: After every walk, check your pet thoroughly for fleas or ticks, especially around the ears, between the toes, and under the tail.

7. Safety and Health Alerts (Khatre aur Sehat)

• Avoid Dirty Water: Never let your pet drink or walk through stagnant (ruka hua) water in the streets. This water can carry serious diseases like leptospirosis.
• Thunderstorm Anxiety: If your pet is afraid of thunder (bijli ki garaj), create a safe, quiet ‘den’ for them (like a blanketed crate). Comfort them gently or consult your vet for calming remedies.

• • Vaccinations: Ensure all their yearly vaccinations are up-to-date, especially those that protect against waterborne illnesses.