Wet fur and muddy paws? No, thank you!
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Anyone who has ever walked a dog in the monsoon knows that pet care has a different set of rules in these rainy months. From slushy walks to being cooped up indoors, routines look different this season. But it’s a great opportunity to engage differently with your pet and to see a different side to them — and, of course, vice versa. Besides adjusting their walk routines, here are a few other tweaks for a rainy day:Be empathetic: Put yourself in your pet’s shoes or, rather, paws. When it comes to pet care, the best thing to start with is empathy. Try to imagine what they may be feeling as the weather changes from hot and sunny to rainy. Have you noticed them acting differently? The disruption to their usual outdoor play and walking schedule could leave them feeling frustrated and anxious. So they may be trying to fulfil this need in other ways. Try to be patient, they’re trying to figure it out too.Mental stimulation: While physical exercise is important for dogs, giving their minds a workout is equally essential. Puzzles for dogs are often designed around their strongest sense: smell. Did you know that a dog’s olfactory capacity is 10,000 to 100,000 times that of a human? An easy game to play with your dog (with your parents’ supervision) could be to break their treats into pieces and hide them in three or four easily accessible spots in a room. Then, let your dog in and ask them to ‘search’. With their strong noses, they’ll likely make quick work of this scavenger hunt and have a ball doing it! There are several variations of this game you can try. Giving them appropriate chews can also be relaxing for dogs.Post-walk clean-up: Wet fur and muddy paws? No, thank you! Keep a box by the door with clean-up essentials that are specific to your dog. Wet wipes or tissues come in handy, and don’t forget to check between paw pads for ticks! A towel to dry off the coat is a good idea as well. A dry coat and paws are essential to avoid skin issues, so spend some time on this. Once their coat is dry, remember to brush them well.Age plays a big role in what your dog needs. Older dogs are more affected by the cold and may need supplements, while younger ones may need more engagement. You are in the best position to observe what your dog needs. So just spend some time with them and take note. When in doubt, consult a professional. Your dog’s favourite activity is likely just to hang out with you. Published - July 03, 2026 09:15 am IST
