Diwali is the most joyful festival of the year for us, but for many dogs and cats it is the most frightening. A dog’s hearing is far more sensitive than ours, so a firecracker that sounds loud to you can feel like an explosion to your pet. Add strange smells, bright flashes, visitors and plates of sweets, and it is easy to see why so many pets hide, shake or run away during the festival.
The good news is that a little planning makes a big difference. Here is how to keep your dog or cat safe and calm this Diwali.
Signs your pet is scared of firecrackers
Pets cannot tell us they are frightened, but they show it clearly. Watch for:
- Shaking, panting or drooling
- Hiding under the bed or in a corner
- Pacing, whining or barking non-stop
- Refusing food
- Trying to escape through doors, gates or balconies
If you notice these signs, stay calm yourself. Pets pick up on our mood, so a relaxed, gentle voice helps more than fussing.
1. Create a safe den indoors
Choose a quiet room away from the street side of your home. Close the windows and draw the curtains to reduce noise and flashes. Put your pet’s bed, a favourite blanket, water and a few toys there. Many dogs feel safer in a covered crate or under a table with a sheet over it. Let your pet go there by choice and never lock them in.
2. Walk your dog early
Most firecrackers start after sunset. Take your dog for a long walk in the late afternoon so they are tired and relaxed by evening. Keep them on a leash with a well-fitted collar or harness, because even a calm dog can bolt at a sudden bang. Make sure the ID tag has your current phone number.
3. Mask the noise
Play the TV, soft music or a fan in your pet’s room. A steady background sound makes the bangs outside less sudden. A long-lasting chew toy or treat also helps, because chewing is naturally calming for dogs.
4. Keep sweets and dry fruits out of reach
Diwali mithai is a real risk. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Raisins and grapes can damage a dog’s kidneys. Sweets made with sugar-free sweetener (xylitol) are dangerous even in small amounts, and rich, oily sweets can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis. Ask guests not to feed your pet from the table, and give them a pet-safe treat instead.
5. Be careful with diyas, candles and rangoli
Curious cats and wagging tails can knock over diyas and candles. Place them on high shelves your pet cannot reach. Rangoli colours may contain chemicals that irritate the skin or stomach, so keep pets away from wet or fresh rangoli.
6. Never force your pet outside to “get used to it”
Taking a frightened pet into the middle of the celebrations does not make them brave. It can make the fear much worse for future years. Let them stay indoors, where they feel in control.
7. Talk to your vet about anxiety
If your pet becomes extremely distressed every year, speak to your vet before the festival. Never give your pet human sleeping pills or calming medicine; many are dangerous for animals. Your vet can suggest safe options.
Keep your pet looking and feeling their best this Diwali
Festivals are a time for family photos, and your pet is family too. Book a festive grooming session at Sandy’s Friends in Shahdara, so your dog or cat is fresh, clean and comfortable before the celebrations begin.
From all of us at Sandy’s Friends, have a happy, safe and peaceful Diwali, for you and your furry friends.