Pets call in sick as winter sets in

Over the past two weeks the Bombay Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSCPCA) has seen a marked rise in the number of pets and strays being brought in for treatment. According to BSCPCA officials, most of the animals being brought in are dogs and cats.

Last week, the BSPCA treated 21 animals, 10 of them for fever, three for nausea and eight for respiratory problems. "Last year the total number of animals we treated in December was 92 but this year it seems like there will be more as already we have seen 21 unwell animals in the first six days of the month," said Lt Colonel (Dr) JC Khanna, secretary, BSPCA.

He said, "Pets are more likely to be affected by the weather change as compared to stray dogs, cats or cattle, as pets areused to air conditioners. Stray animals have stronger immunity."

The SPCA Parel takes care of the animals and is the only one of its kind animal care centre in Mumbai. "With the onset of winter we expect more pets to be brought in for treatment," he added.

Precautions for pets:
>> Do not take them for early morning walks. Take them for walks only after the sun is well and truly up
>>u00a0All pets should be given only fresh and warm food as they fall ill if they have stale or cold food
>>u00a0Pets should not be exposed to sudden change in temperature such as a blast from the air conditioner immediately after coming in from a walk or a run
>>u00a0Pets should be given fresh water to drink at all times in order to ensure minimum chances on infection
>>u00a0They should be taken to a vet as soon as possible if a they fall ill and shows signs of fever or nauseau00a0