HOW TO SAFELY CELEBRATE DIWALI WITH YOUR PETS – THE ULTIMATE INDIAN GUIDE!
Diwali—the festival of lights, sweets, and lots (and LOTS) of fireworks! For us humans, it’s a time to rejoice, light up the skies, and revel in the noise. But what about our four legged friends? While we’re busy lighting diyas and eating mithai, our pets are usually cowering under the bed, wondering why the world’s exploding outside.
Here’s the good news: You can celebrate Diwali while keeping your pets happy, calm, and festive too! Let’s dive into a wacky but wise guide on how to make this Diwali a paw some celebration for your furry friends.
FIRECRACKERS: THE LOUD ENEMY!
We love fireworks—the lights, the bang, the spectacle. But for our pets, those loud sounds aren’t just annoying; they’re terrifying. Dogs and cats have sensitive hearing, and the constant barrage of explosions can cause severe anxiety, stress, and even heart issues. Imagine hearing an endless chain of firecracker blasts as thunderclaps inside your ears. Not fun, right?
Pet Friendly Solutions
Create a Cozy Sanctuary: Designate a quiet, comfortable space for your pet inside the house. Think of it as their personal Diwali den. Soundproof the area as much as possible—close the windows, draw the curtains, and lay down their favorite blanket. Add some white noise or soothing classical Indian music (maybe some sitar or tabla magic) to drown out the outside chaos.
Anti Anxiety Gear: You can try pet specific products like anxiety wraps or noise canceling ear muffs to keep them calm. If your pet tends to get especially jittery, consult your vet for calming treats or medications to help them through the fireworks madness.
DIYAS AND DECORATIVE LIGHTS: LET THERE BE (PET SAFE) LIGHT!
Diyas and candles are the heart of Diwali decor. But open flames and curious pets don’t mix! Your dog’s wagging tail could easily knock over a candle, or your cat might get a little too close to those flames.
The Pet Safe Glow Plan
Go Electric: Ditch the open flames for LED diyas and fairy lights. Not only are they safer for your pets, but they also come in an array of vibrant colors to give your home that perfect Diwali glow. Plus, no melted wax for your pet to accidentally step in!
Watch the Wires: If you’re stringing up lights, make sure the wires are out of reach or covered, especially if you have a teething pup who loves to chew on things.
PET FRIENDLY DIWALI FASHION: BECAUSE WHO SAYS ONLY HUMANS GET TO DRESS UP?
Diwali is all about dressing up in your best traditional attire, so why not extend the fashion fun to your pets? A dog in a tiny kurta or a cat sporting a sparkly collar—now that’s the real Diwali spirit!
FASHION TIPS FOR FURRY FESTIVITIES
Comfort First: If your pet isn’t used to wearing clothes, ease them into it. Start with lightweight, breathable outfits or accessories like festive bandanas or collars. Avoid anything too tight or elaborate that might make them uncomfortable.
Pet Selfie Time: Once they’re dressed up and looking fabulous, it’s time for a Diwali themed pet photo shoot! Decorate the background with some diyas (LED ones, of course!) and flowers, and let your pet steal the show on your Instagram feed.
SWEETS AND SNACKS: THE GREAT PET NO NO!
Diwali and sweets go hand in hand, but here’s the thing—what’s delicious for us is often dangerous for pets. Chocolates, sugar laden treats, and foods loaded with nuts or dairy can cause serious harm to your pets’ digestive system. And let’s not even start on that tray of oily samosas and kachoris that they’ve been eyeing!
The Diwali Treat Trick
DIY Pet Sweets: Why not make your pet some festive treats of their own? Whip up a batch of dog friendly laddoos using ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, or peanut butter (without added sugar or salt, of course). Your pet can enjoy a Diwali snack that’s healthy and safe.
Keep Human Treats Out of Reach: As much as those puppy eyes are begging for a piece of gulab jamun, be firm. Keep human food high up and out of reach, or better yet, in a pet proof container.
THE GREAT DIWALI PET PARADE: INVOLVE YOUR PETS IN THE CELEBRATIONS!
Just because yor pet can’t burst crackers doesn’t mean they can’t join the festivities. Diwali is a time for family, and our pets are family too!
Fun Pet Activities
Pet Friendly Diwali Party: Host a pet friendly Diwali celebration with other pet parents. You could have games, special pet treats, and even a little Diwali fashion contest for the best dressed fur ball!
Diya Stroll: Take your pet for a peaceful evening stroll after the fireworks have calmed down. Admire the beautifully lit homes and rangolis, and enjoy the festive atmosphere without the noise.
VET ON SPEED DIAL: JUST IN CASE!
While you do your best to keep your pet safe, it’s always wise to be prepared for emergencies. Make sure you have your vet’s number handy, especially if your pet has a history of anxiety or health issues related to noise and stress.
Emergency Kit
Keep a pet first aid kit ready, including things like bandages, antiseptic cream, and calming aids. Better safe than sorry!
This Diwali, make sure your pets are part of the fun, not sidelined by fear and stress. With a little planning, you can create a Diwali celebration that’s bright, joyful, and safe for everyone—including your fur babies! Whether it’s by creating a cozy sanctuary, dressing them in festive outfits, or whipping up pet friendly treats, a little extra effort goes a long way in ensuring your pet enjoys Diwali as much as you do.
Because after all, a truly happy Diwali is one where every member of the family—two legged and four legged—gets to share in the joy and love.