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Monsoon care for your pooches

There is no denying the fact that pets need special care during this season. Here are a few pointers to take care of your pets during the rains

- ■ Anjali Shetty anjali.shetty@htlive.com

The rains are here and while most of us are craving for those monsoon snacks and long drives, our pets may not look at the season with equal enthusiasm. The onset of rains spells trouble for them right from cutting short their walks and damp paws, to fear of infection and low immunity system.

GROOMING NECESSITIE­S

A pet parent needs to be aware of his or her duties especially during monsoon. The reason being, rains are a dampener for pets because it leads to skin infections and a number of digestive problems. Dr Sagar Bhongle says, “Wiping the paws of your pets and ensuring their fur is dry completely is a must. Dirty fur or paws may lead to yeast of fungal infections. Use lukewarm water and a clean towel to do so.” This season, one should be extra careful about deworming medication, tick and flea treatments. Bhongle adds, “Use of neem oil or talc will help get rid of foul odour.”

EATING RIGHT

Come rains and your dog may experience mood swings and behavioura­l issues. A pet will be afraid of thundersto­rmsthu and lighting.lig The rumbling in the skies will get them anxiousan and irritable. A safesa and warm bed with coversco will relax them andan make them feel comfortabl­e.co Sonal Zalkikar,Z who supplies homemadeh meals for p pets says, “One should make sure that pets are provided with freshly cooked food, soups, and broths. Include seasonal vegetables that have high fibre content,conten like carrots, zucchini, and bottle gourd. Also ensure that the pets have fresh drinking water in their bowls. You can go for mixed meat broth, veggies and egg soup, chicken soup, oats and honey treats, liver cookies, pumpkin bites and more.”

Puppies are more prone to conditions like gastroente­ritis, viral gastro and viruses like Parvo and Coronaviru­s during the rains. Priyanka Ahire, a pet owner, shares, “Stale food products and bakery items that retain moisture must be done away with. Toad poisoning is another cause of concern during rains. Thus, make sure that the walking track is free of shrubs and toads.” Dr Bhongle adds, “A balanced diet with protein, carbohydra­tes, fibre, calcium, fat and vitamins should be given regularly.”

 ??  ?? Cauliflowe­r and Pea Cake
Cauliflowe­r and Pea Cake
 ??  ?? Veggie Cake for your pet cat
Veggie Cake for your pet cat

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