Summer is already here. It’s very important to take care of your pets as you do yourself.

Dr M. Sabapathi, a veterinary practitioner for the last seven years, says, “Medium and healthy dogs should be showered daily. If it is a good breed dog wipe them once after the shower to prevent fungal infections.The diet can be supplemented with increased protein and less carbohydrate food that is easily digestible.”

“Non-vegetarian food like beef, egg white can be added. Give them more water with a pinch of electrolyte or vitamin tonic like B-complex. The heat stress can makes the pets fall sick where there are chances for dehydration, so make the pets consume more water,” he adds.

He advises pet owners not to take the pets for a walk during peek hours,. It was essential to provide them comforts like a cooled floor, air conditioner, the shade of trees or plants, which will give them a cooling effect. It was also better to avoid giving them sweet and spicy food and ensure that they have regular vaccination.

“Allowing them freedom within the house enables them to instinctively find the coolest spot in the home”, he adds.

Sushila, who owns finches (breed) says, “During summer, we keep the cage indoors and cover it with a wet cloth. We also clean it on a regular basis to ensure that the birds are eating proper food and drinking clean water and not spoilt left overs.”

“To help birds, place bowls of water on window sills, on balconies, on terraces and in gardens”, she adds.

Similarly, Kavin Chakravathy, who owns a labrador, says, “We keep Waffy, our lab in an air conditioned room during summer, which keeps him cool. In his diet we add fresh juice, fruits, ice creams, cold water, which cools him during summer”