Not everyone in the city has a blast on Diwali. For most animals, the sound of fireworks is nothing short of terrifying. “It is very scary for animals, as they hear sounds much louder than human beings. So, it’s almost an unbearable assault on their eardrums,” says Dr Vinod Sharma of the Jeevashram Animal Shelter and Veterinary Hospital.
According to experts, to make things easier on your pets and stray animals on Diwali night, there are some easy things that you can keep in mind. “Firstly, make sure your pet is inside the house. Put big cotton buds in their ears and don’t leave them alone at home,” says Dr Vijay Kumar of the animal shelter - Sonadi Charitable Trust.
"During Diwali time, our pets have the tendency to get a bit confused with the changes in light and sound in the surroundings. We need to help them be comfortable with these changes and get rid of their fear. First and foremost, take them for a walk before the celebrations start in full swing, so that they are not too uncomfortable later," says Dr. Kallahalli Umesh, communication manager, Waltham Scientific. "Many people end up leashing their pets if they create a lot of noise and react to fire crackers. This should not be done because the pet might just try to struggle and break free and injure itself," adds Dr. Sharma.
Stray animals bear the worst brunt of Diwali celebrations, as many of them get burnt due to rockets, bombs and phooljhadis. “They suffer a lot, so people should be sensitive and not burn firecrackers near them,” adds Dr Sharma. Another aspect of the festive season that doctors warn against is unhealthy eating — even by pets. “People give their pets all the mithais they eat. It does nothing but harm them in the long run,” says Dr Sharma.
{{/usCountry}}Stray animals bear the worst brunt of Diwali celebrations, as many of them get burnt due to rockets, bombs and phooljhadis. “They suffer a lot, so people should be sensitive and not burn firecrackers near them,” adds Dr Sharma. Another aspect of the festive season that doctors warn against is unhealthy eating — even by pets. “People give their pets all the mithais they eat. It does nothing but harm them in the long run,” says Dr Sharma.
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