How to travel with your dog-in Monsoons?

There's something magical about watching your dog experience the world during monsoon season – the fresh scents in the air, the excitement of splashing through puddles, and that pure joy only our four-legged companions can express when they feel the first drops of rain.

For the past five years, our golden retriever Phiphi has been our constant travel companion through India's monsoon seasons. What started as a tentative first trip has evolved into some of our most cherished memories together. If you're considering taking your dog along for monsoon travels, here's everything we've learned from countless soggy adventures, unexpected challenges, and absolutely magical moments.

Why Monsoon Travel with Dogs is Actually Amazing

There's an energy in the air during this season that dogs seem to instinctively understand. Phiphi becomes more playful, more curious, and somehow more connected to the natural world around her. The cooler temperatures mean longer walks, more comfortable car rides, and endless opportunities for exploration.

Our Favorite Monsoon Destinations with Phiphi

Goa: Where Rain Meets the Sea (Phiphi's Favorite Birthday Destination)

Goa during monsoons holds a special place in our hearts because it's become Phiphi's annual birthday tradition. Every July, when the monsoons are at their peak, we pack our bags and head to Goa to celebrate another year of adventures with our golden girl. What started as a coincidental timing has now become our most treasured family tradition.

Goa during monsoons is a completely different creature from its peak season persona. The beaches are empty, the landscape is lush and green, and there's a peaceful rhythm that both humans and dogs can appreciate. Phiphi loves the long stretches of sand at Mandrem and Agonda beaches, where she can run freely without crowds – it's like having the entire coastline as her personal birthday playground.

What makes Goa special for dogs during monsoons:

• Fewer tourists mean more space for your dog to explore

• The cooler weather is perfect for golden retrievers who typically struggle with heat

• Dog-friendly beaches become your private playground

• Many shacks and cafes are more relaxed about well-behaved dogs during the quieter season

• The monsoon hikes along the coastal trails are absolutely magical

• It is also cheaper, which means more days to enjoy!

  
  

Goa Monsoon Memory: Last year, during Phiphi's 4th birthday celebration, we were caught in a sudden downpour at Mandrem beach. Instead of running for cover, Phiphi stood on the ramparts, tail wagging furiously, as if she was commanding the storm. That image of pure joy in the rain perfectly captures why we love monsoon travels – and why Goa in July has become her special place.

dog at beach

dog in raincoat

dog at waterfall

travel with dog

dog at beach

travel with dog

Challenges of Monsoon Travel with your dog

1. Humidity, Wetness, and Skin Health

This is perhaps the biggest concern for any dog parent during monsoon travels. The combination of constant humidity and wetness creates the perfect breeding ground for skin infections and fungal issues. Golden retrievers like Phiphi, with their double coats, are particularly susceptible as moisture gets trapped against their skin for hours.

Our tried-and-tested approach:

• Pack at least two absorbent towels – they're lightweight and absorb water quickly

• Invest in a good-quality dog raincoat and waterproof boots (though expect resistance initially – Phiphi took two trips to accept hers)

• Bring a portable blow dryer designed for pets – this is non-negotiable for monsoon travel

• Trim paw hair before your trip to prevent moisture retention and fungal infections between toes

• Choose accommodations with covered outdoor areas where your dog can still enjoy the rain sounds without getting completely soaked

• Schedule regular "dry breaks" during long travel days

• Pack antifungal powder or spray for problem areas like paws and underarms

Pro tip: We learned to embrace partial wetness rather than fighting it completely, but never compromise on thorough drying at the end of each day especially the paws and the ears. A slightly damp Phiphi who's happy during the day is fine, but she needs to be completely dry before sleep.

2. Parasites: The Leech, Tick, and Flea Challenge

Nothing prepares you for the first time you find a leech on your dog during a monsoon hike. It happened to us on a trail in Coorg, and while it looks alarming, it's manageable with the right preparation. The increased humidity and moisture during monsoons create ideal breeding conditions for all parasites.

Leech prevention and management:

• Apply a thin layer of coconut oil on your dog's legs and belly before hikes

• Carry salt in a small container for safe leech removal

• Check your dog every 15-20 minutes during hikes in heavily forested areas

• Stick to well-maintained trails during peak monsoon months

• Check your dog's nose because a leech latched inside the nose is a trouble you never want!

Tick and flea prevention:

• Apply tick and flea prevention treatment 2-3 days before travel (topical medications)

• Pack a flea comb and use it for daily checks after every outdoor adventure

• Use tick repellent spray before heading out

• Bring medicated shampoo specifically for ticks and fleas

• Choose accommodations that maintain good hygiene standards

• Avoid letting your dog roll in wet grass or explore overgrown areas unsupervised

Critical routine: Check for ticks and leeches every single time you return from any outdoor adventure, no matter how brief. Remove them immediately using proper techniques. We make this part of our post-adventure routine along with paw cleaning and drying.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues from Contaminated Water

Monsoons bring their own set of water-related challenges. Stagnant water, contaminated puddles, and even seemingly clean natural water sources can harbor bacteria and parasites that cause severe gastro issues in dogs.

Our water safety protocol:

• Always carry enough fresh drinking water for your dog

• Never let your dog drink from puddles, ponds, or stagnant water sources

• Be cautious about natural streams and rivers – they can be contaminated during heavy rains

• Carry oral rehydration solutions for pets

• Know the signs of gastro distress and have contact information for local vets

4. Increased Wildlife Activity

Monsoons awaken the natural world, and this includes wildlife that can pose challenges for traveling dogs. From elephants becoming more active as they search for food and water, to the explosion of frog populations and snakes that can fascinate (and sometimes overwhelm) curious dogs.

Wildlife awareness tips:

• Research the wildlife activity in your destination during monsoon season

• In areas like Nilgiris, be aware of increased elephant and bison movement, especially near water sources

• Keep your dog leashed in areas known for wildlife activity

• Be prepared for your dog's reaction to increased frog sounds and sightings

• Carry a flashlight for early morning or evening walks when wildlife is most active

• Choose accommodations away from known wildlife corridors during peak activity periods

Packing Essentials for Monsoon Dog Travel

After five years of trial and error, here's our refined packing checklist:

Weather Protection:

• Waterproof dog raincoat (invest in quality)

• Waterproof dog boots (expect training time needed)

• Quick-dry towels (at least 3 – microfiber works best)

• Portable pet blow dryer (non-negotiable for monsoon travel)

• Waterproof bag for wet items

Health and Safety:

• Current vaccination certificates

• Tick repellent spray for dogs

• Tick and flea prevention supplies

• Medicated shampoo for parasites

• Basic first aid kit including antiseptic

• Antifungal powder or spray

• Emergency vet contact numbers for your destination

• Regular medications in waterproof containers

• Oral rehydration solutions for pets

Grooming and Comfort:

• Dog brush for daily grooming

• Flea comb for parasite checks

• Familiar blanket or toy for comfort

• Elevated dog bed to keep them off potentially damp floors

• Waterproof sheets for their sleeping area

• Extra leash (wet leashes break more easily)

Food and Water:

• Enough regular food for the entire trip

• Portable food and water bowls

• Fresh drinking water supply

• Healthy treats for training and comfort

Choosing the Right Accommodation

Not all dog-friendly accommodations are created equal, especially during monsoons. Here's what we look for:

Must-haves:

• Covered outdoor spaces

• Good drainage around the property

• Flexible policies about wet dogs

• Access to veterinary services nearby

• Resident dogs or other dog-owning guests (Phiphi and we love making friends!)

For a comprehensive guide on finding the perfect pet-friendly accommodation for any season, check out our detailed post: Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations: A Complete Guide

The Unexpected Joys

While much of this post focuses on challenges and solutions, the truth is that monsoon travel with Phiphi has given us some of our most treasured memories. Watching her experience her last trek in Coorg, seeing her cautiously approach a peacock in Goa, or simply observing her pure contentment during a gentle rain shower – these moments remind us why we travel together.

There's also something about monsoon travel – and especially monsoon hiking – that deepens the bond between you and your dog. You're both navigating new experiences, relying on each other on misty trails, and creating shared memories that somehow feel more meaningful when there's a little adventure and uncertainty involved. Our monsoon hikes with Phiphi have taught us to read each other's signals better and to appreciate the wild beauty of India's rainy season together.

Whether it's celebrating another July birthday with Phiphi on the beaches of Goa or discovering a new waterfall trail in Kotagiri's tea country, these monsoon adventures have become the highlight of our year.

Final Thoughts: Is Monsoon Dog Travel Worth It?

After five years of monsoon adventures with Phiphi, my answer is an enthusiastic yes – with proper preparation. The challenges are real, but they're manageable with the right approach and mindset. The rewards – deeper bonding, unique experiences, and seeing the world through your dog's eyes during one of nature's most dynamic seasons – far outweigh the extra planning required.

Every dog is different, and what works for Phiphi might need adjustment for your furry companion.

Most importantly, remember that the goal isn't a perfect trip – it's a shared adventure. Some of our best stories come from the moments when things didn't go according to plan, but we figured it out together.

The monsoons are calling, and your dog is probably ready for an adventure. Are you?

If you're new to traveling with your dog, we recommend starting with our foundational guides: How to Turn 'Pet-Friendly Travel' from Chaos to Adventure and The Joys of Travelling with Your Dog to build your confidence before tackling monsoon-specific challenges.

Related Reading

New to traveling with your dog? Start with these essential guides:

• Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations: A Complete Guide

• How to Turn 'Pet-Friendly Travel' from Chaos to Adventure

• The Joys of Travelling with Your Dog

• Car Sickness in Dogs - Understanding and Managing the Challenge

Have you traveled with your dog during monsoons? Share your experiences, tips, and favorite destinations in the comments below. Let's build a community of monsoon-loving dog parents!