01 July,2026 10:08 AM IST | Mumbai | Rumani Gabhare
Pic courtesy/Tilting heads
I have two dogs, a male German Shepherd, Zeus and a female indie, Kiki. As German Shepherds have a double coat, I have found that tick sprays and medicated shampoos do not work well, I give him a tick prevention tablet once every three months. During the monsoon, a raincoat is essential to reduce the risk of rainwater-related allergies and infections.
Sharon Braganza
Once we return home, I wash their paws with diluted antiseptic and blow-dry them thoroughly to ensure no moisture remains. Their diet includes a skin and coat supplement, with boneless fish and fish skin offered occasionally. On rainy days, I walk them in the parking area of my housing society instead of taking them out.
Unfortunately, thunderstorms can't be controlled and make my indie anxious. Try keeping the windows shut, avoid force feeding if they refuse food, and focus on keeping them as comfortable as possible. A small amount of sugar-free ice cream helps as well.
Sharon Braganza, 27 wedding designer, Thane
If your cats are mostly indoors, like mine were, and dislike water, they are unlikely to venture out during the rain. However, that does not mean you can let your guard down. Even if they are vaccinated, watch for injuries from stray animals or the possibility of them eating something unsafe.
Urvashi Rathore
One of my rescued cats had open wounds infested with maggots after an alleged dog attack and a severe intestinal worm infestation. My cat, Guddu developed a fungal skin infection that caused itchiness and patchy fur. It is also important to clean and wipe their paws regularly, especially after they have been outdoors. Use a dry shampoo regularly.
Urvashi Rathore, 21, student, Vashi
Pic courtesy/Pawsindia
Don't let the rain put an end to your dog's evening walks. This hooded 360-degree raincoat features an adjustable fit and easy Velcro fastening to keep your pet dry and comfortable, whatever
the weather.
Log on to pawsindia.com
Cost Rs 1049 onwards
Save yourself the post-walk clean-up. With an anti-slip sole, lightweight design and waterproof EVA shield, these boots help keep feet dry through puddles and wet streets.
Log on to tiltingheads.com
Cost Rs 2999
Pic courtesy/Heads up for tails
Keep unwanted hitchhikers away, with this handmade, natural, organic and vegan anti-tick spray infused with lemongrass and geranium. A few sprays behind the ears, under the tail, near the elbows and around the feet offer added protection.
Log on to headsupfortails.com
Cost Rs 500
Pic courtesy/Supertails
Dry your furry friends in minutes. Made from ultra-soft, highly absorbent fabric, this towel quickly soaks up water after baths, rainy walks, swimming or grooming, helping keep your home and car clean and dry.
Log on to supertails.com
Cost Rs 399
Pic courtesy/Ruse
Stay visible on super gloomy evenings. Designed with a reflective strip and padded inner lining, this collar improves visibility during walks in heavy rain while remaining comfortable to wear.
Log on to ruse.in
Cost Rs 750
>> Stay on schedule: Keep vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and deworming up to date to reduce the risk of infections.
>> Inspect skin regularly: Check for redness, scratches, wounds, hot spots or excessive licking, and address them early.
>> Maintain hygiene: Clean bedding and bowls regularly, keep ears dry, and always wash and dry paws after rainy walks.
>> Support immunity: Feed a balanced diet to promote healthy skin, wound healing and overall immunity.
>> Act on wounds quickly: Clean minor wounds, prevent licking, and consult a vet if you notice swelling, discharge, pain, a foul odour or loss of appetite.
>> Always avoid self-treatment: Skip home remedies and human medicines, complete prescribed antibiotics, and don't delay veterinary care if symptoms persist.
By Hemant Thange, chief veterinarian at Petsvets, Thane
