A Pet Care Forecast for a Rainy Day

With the India Meteorological Depart-ment continuing to issue heavy-rain warnings across several regions in August 2026, pet parents are once again navigating shortened walks, wet coats and muddy paws. Every-body is little concerned for their furry friends.

During the monsoons, muddy walks, stagnant water and increased parasite activity can create the perfect conditions for skin, ear and gastrointestinal problems for our pets. According to Dr Ali Kapi, Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon and Radiologist, the monsoon can bring “Persistent moisture can encourage yeast and bacterial overgrowth and may result in redness, itching, an unpleasant odour or excessive discharge,” creating conditions that aggravate existing health problems in pets.”

The Dampness Problem

Humidity doesn’t cause an infection but it creates an environment where moisture can grow and this can cause discomfort for pets in particular areas such as the paws, ears, belly, groin and skin folds. This is why simply wiping the visible water from your pet’s coat isn’t always enough. “During the monsoon, pets commonly suffer from skin infections, fungal infections, tick and flea infestations, ear infections, stomach infections and paw problems caused by constant dampness,” says Dr Narendra Pardeshi, Veterinary Surgeon at Small Animal Clinic, Pune.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that more baths automatically mean a cleaner, healthier pet. “Most pets do not need frequent bathing during the monsoon,” says Dr Pardeshi. “Bathe them only as advised by your veterinarian or when they are genuinely dirty.”

Dr Kapi also cautions against excessive bathing with harsh shampoos, as this can damage the skin barrier and potentially make existing skin conditions worse. If your pet is simply wet after a walk, Dr Madhavi Awale, Veterinary Physician, suggests drying them thoroughly, including using a blow dryer where appropriate, rather than giving them a bath every time they get wet.

Keep An Eye Out

The monsoon is also prime time for parasites. Ticks and fleas can become more troublesome, while stagnant or contaminated water can increase exposure to infectious organisms. “Pet parents should be particularly alert to leptospirosis in dogs,” says Dr Kapi. The bacteria responsible for leptospirosis can be present in water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals. Dogs can be exposed when they drink contaminated water or walk through it. Importantly, the disease is zoonotic, meaning it can also spread from animals to humans. Vaccinations should also be kept up to date. Dr Awale stresses the importance of discussing leptospirosis vaccination with a veterinarian, particularly for dogs with greater outdoor exposure.

Puppy Care Time

Puppies also need special attention during the rainy season. According to Dr Awale, young dogs can be vulnerable to illnesses such as parvovirus, making appropriate puppy vaccinations and veterinary guidance particularly important.

Not every scratch or muddy paw is a cause for concern, but persistent symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. “Pet parents should watch for persistent scratching, hair loss, red or itchy skin, ear discharge, limping, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, fever, unusual tiredness or changes in behaviour,” says Dr Narendra Pardeshi. If redness, itching, hair loss, unpleasant odour or ear discharge keeps returning during the monsoon, consult a veterinarian rather than repeatedly treating it at home. Recurring infections can sometimes indicate an underlying allergy or another condition.

Raincoats, Boots and Walks

Raincoats, boots and pet-safe wipes can make rainy walks easier, but they need to be used carefully. Wet clothing or footwear left on for too long can trap moisture and encourage skin irritation. Once home, remove wet gear, clean it and dry your pet thoroughly.

The rains can also mean shorter walks and less exercise. But keeping pets inactive for long periods isn’t ideal, particularly for high-energy breeds such as Labradors and Beagles. “Rainy season is quite a gloomy season; it affects us and our pets,” says Dr Madhavi Awale. She recommends maintaining activity through indoor play, training and walks whenever the weather permits. If exercise drops significantly, food portions may also need to be adjusted.

Adapt, Don’t Overreact

Monsoon care is about making small changes rather than completely disrupting your pet’s routine. Keep paws dry, brush long coats regularly, maintain parasite and vaccination schedules, and ensure food and water remain clean.

Most importantly, watch for changes in behaviour or health. A muddy paw is normal; a paw that stays red and irritated for days is not. A pet that becomes unusually tired, stops eating or develops persistent vomiting or diarrhoea needs veterinary attention. The goal isn’t to keep pets away from the rain—it’s to make sure the rain doesn’t become a health problem.

Rainy Day Routine

• After a rainy walk, the first job is simple: dry your pet properly.

• If your dog’s paws are muddy, rinse them with clean water and dry them thoroughly. Pay attention to the spaces between the toes.

• Give the belly and coat a wipe-down as well, especially if your pet has walked through wet grass or puddles.

• Long-haired pets need a little more attention. Regular brushing can prevent mats from forming and allows air to reach the skin.