Hi Mom,
It is me, your loving Dog. I know you love the monsoon. The cool breeze, the green trees, the smell of rain on the ground. I like it too sometimes. But for me, this season can be difficult in many ways.
I want to tell you what happens to me during the monsoon and how you can help me. Together we can make sure I stay healthy, clean, and happy even when it is raining every day.
My Skin Gets Itchy and Sore
During monsoon, the air is always damp and humid. Even inside our home, there is moisture everywhere. This makes it easy for bacteria and fungus to grow on my skin.
My skin can get red and itchy. Sometimes I scratch so much that my hair falls out in patches. If you see me scratching a lot or see any sore spots, please check my skin carefully. I might need medicine or help from the vet so it does not get worse.
Ticks and Fleas Love This Weather
Ticks and fleas really like this wet season. When we go for walks, even in the wet grass near home, these little pests can climb onto me. They hide in damp bushes and muddy places.
They make me itch a lot and can even make me sick. Please check my fur after every walk to see if any ticks or fleas are hiding. Also, please use my tick and flea treatment on time. And when you give me a bath, can you please use a chemical-free tick and flea shampoo? It is gentler on my skin and keeps those bugs away without any harsh chemicals.
My Ears Can Get Infected
You know my big floppy ears look cute but they trap moisture inside. When they stay damp, bacteria and yeast can grow.
My ears might start to smell bad, look red inside, or make me scratch and shake my head all the time. Please help me keep my ears dry. If you see anything wrong, please take me to the vet quickly before it gets painful.
Wet Paws Can Cause Problems
I love running in the rain and splashing in puddles. But when my paws stay wet and muddy, they can get infected.
Moisture can hide between my toes, where bacteria and fungus can grow. When we come back home, can you please clean and dry my paws really well? Also, you can use pet-safe paw sanitizer on them. It helps keep my paws clean and healthy and stops infections before they start.
I Might Drink Dirty Water
When we are outside, I might try to drink from puddles. I know you tell me not to, but the water looks tempting to me.
But those puddles can have germs, parasites, and harmful bacteria. If I drink from them, I might get an upset stomach, vomit, or have diarrhoea. Please watch me carefully when we are outside and stop me if I try to drink dirty water. Also, make sure my food stays fresh because humidity can make it spoil faster.
I Can Catch Coughs Too
Monsoon weather is cool and damp, which can make me more likely to catch coughs and breathing problems.
If I play with other dogs, I can get kennel cough more easily in this season. If you notice me sneezing, coughing, feeling very tired, or having a runny nose, please take me to the vet. Early treatment helps me recover faster.
Thunderstorms Scare Me
The loud sounds of thunder, the bright lightning, and heavy rain make me very scared.
I might hide under the bed, shake all over, bark too much, or even try to run away. Please stay with me and comfort me. Sit with me, pet me gently, talk to me softly, or play calm music. You can make a safe, quiet space for me so I feel better during storms.
I Smell Bad When I Am Damp
Even if I stay inside, the damp air makes my fur smell weird. You know that wet dog smell. My bedding also stays damp for days and starts to smell bad.
Can you please keep my bedding clean and dry? And can you use waterless dog shampoo on me? It keeps me clean and fresh without needing a full bath all the time.
Puddles Can Be Dangerous
Puddles are not just dirty, they can be dangerous too.
Snails and slugs come out during the rain. They can carry parasites that can make me very sick. Stagnant water can also have bacteria like leptospirosis which is dangerous for both me and you.
Please keep me away from puddles and muddy standing water.
Less Exercise Can Make Me Gain Weight
When it rains a lot, it is hard for us to go on long walks. I might sleep too much or get bored. If I do not move enough, I can quickly gain weight.
Can we play inside the house? We can do tug-of-war, fetch in the hallway, use puzzle toys, or practice training games. These activities keep me happy, active, and healthy even when it is raining outside.
Lots of Love from Your Labrador
I love monsoon time with you. I want to enjoy cozy naps, fun indoor games, and even rainy walks with care. With your help, I can stay safe, healthy, and comfortable all season long.
Thank you for always looking after me.
With lots of love
Your Loving Dog
