Diwali 2023: Follow these 7 tips to ensure safety of animals this festive season

This Diwali when we all light up our lives and residences let us keep in mind that the harsh lighting may not be conducive to our pets and animals who we share our spaces with Animals are particularly sensitive to harsh sounds since they have greater hearing than humans and are easily frightened by high decibel sounds during our celebrations During the time of festivities it is common to witness animals trembling in fear causing sadness loss of appetite and hearing impairment Animals can get terrified by pollution light noise and may even get wounded by firecrackersHere are seven animalfriendly ways to celebrate Diwali according to Dr Princy John head of Strategy amp Operations The Animal Care Organisation TACOEnsuring comfort As we celebrate let us remember that the loud sounds of firecrackers not only disturb our pets but also expose animals to danger Opting for a quieter celebration fosters a compassionate environment While we close our doors and windows to reduce noise consider opening your garages to provide animals especially strays safe spaces This gesture will not only keep them calm and stressfree but will also promote inclusivity during the festivitiesEar protection and paw care Following a walk outside diligently clean your pets paws to shield them from fireworkrelated hazards Also wipe their fur mouth and eyes to remove pollutants Additionally investing in petfriendly earmuffs using cotton earplugs playing soothing music and staying close to your pets can safeguard them and their sensitive ears from the cacophony of fireworks and safeguard them from running away It is also advisable to keep talking with your pets and constantly comfort them and not lose your calm if they get anxious or aggressiveSafety with lights During Diwali a festival of lights we adorn our homes with oil lamps and decorative lighting To safeguard pets it is imperative to keep oil lamps and diyas out of their reach Ensuring decorative lights and diyas are kept where pets cannot access them prevents the risk of electric shocks and burnsWalk timings for pets Celebrating the festivities should include a considerate adjustment to our pets routine Changing their walk timings to early morning and late night can shield them from sudden noise or firerelated disturbances ensuring their wellbeing during the celebrationsCommunity celebrations with care By establishing a defined time limit for community gatherings and celebrations instead of celebrating in each household we can not only minimise the distress experienced by our furry and feathered friends but also mitigate pollution Being mindful of not bursting crackers where stray animals are present is essential to ensure their safety and wellbeing Embracing these practices promotes a more environmentally conscious and empathetic approach to our celebrationsCaring for the birds Raising awareness about the perils of firecrackers and airborne lanterns for animals and birds is of utmost importance Our feathered companions endure significant distress as sometimes their nests catch fire due to stray lanterns entangled in trees Furthermore placing water bowls on balconies during the celebrations enables birds to hydrate themselves amidst depleting air quality during DiwaliSmall efforts huge impact During Diwali celebrations it is prudent to be cautious and check under parked cars as stray dogs may seek refuge there due to the clamour of fireworks In cases of unbearable stress and anxiety in pets consult a veterinarian for advice or medication Refrain from offering pets human sweets as sugar and artificial sweeteners can lead to severe health issues Instead provide a nutritious meal to pets including strays to keep them energised and distract them from the noise Consider volunteering at animal shelters to aid in the care of anxious animalsIn conclusion embracing celebrations and making them pleasant for all can genuinely transform the way we experience festivals By abstaining from bursting crackers and celebrating a green Diwali we promote a more peaceful cohabitation with nature safeguard the wellbeing of animals and maintain a healthier environment for ourselves and future generations Let us work together to cultivate a more compassionate and empathetic society by commemorating our festivities in a manner that is considerate of our animal friends