The blaring loudspeakers and the noise from dhol-tashe and fireworks during the full-on Ganeshotsav celebration, after a gap of two years, are taking a toll on stray and pet dogs as well as birds, said animal lovers. Loud noises accompanied by groups of people clapping and dancing on the roads are leaving stray dogs disoriented, confused and frightened, they added.

In several incidents reported in Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai, dozens of pet animals and stray dogs have gone missing because of loud noise. Several dog feeders have taken to social media to report missing stray dogs. In a desperate bid to find them, some animal lovers have announced cash rewards, fearing street dogfights with strays entering another’s territory. They have also appealed to the citizens to celebrate the festival while considering the safety of animals.