How to Keep Pets Safe During Diwali

Diwali is one of the most vibrant and joyful festivals we celebrate. The glowing diyas, sparkling lights, delicious sweets, and time spent with loved ones make it truly special. But while the celebrations bring happiness to us, they can be overwhelming and even harmful for our furry friends.

The loud bangs and flashes from fireworks can cause serious distress to pets and community animals. Understanding how these sounds affect them is the first step toward creating a safer, kinder Diwali for all.

How Fireworks Affect Pets

1. Damage to Sensitive Hearing

Animals—especially dogs and cats—have far more sensitive hearing than humans. A sound that feels “loud” to us can feel like an explosion to them. Firecrackers can reach up to 190 decibels, while noise above 110 decibels can already harm human ears. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and in some cases, permanent hearing loss or tinnitus in animals.

2. Triggers Stress and Fear

Loud, unpredictable sounds can frighten pets and cause anxiety. Many animals respond by trembling, hiding, barking excessively, whimpering, or even destroying furniture out of panic. Street dogs often run away from their familiar areas during Diwali nights because of these sounds.

3. Long-Term Behavioral Changes

A single traumatic episode can make animals fearful of any loud sound in the future. Some pets develop noise phobias that require training or professional help to overcome.

Why Fireworks Scare Animals

They’re extremely loud: What sounds like a distant pop to us feels dangerously close to pets.
Unpredictable: Animals can’t anticipate when the next cracker will burst, which makes them more anxious.
Flashing lights: The bright, sudden flashes can disorient and frighten them.
Fight or flight: Animals perceive these noises as a threat, triggering panic reactions like running away or barking.
No escape: With crackers going off everywhere, pets often feel trapped, heightening their stress.

How to Protect Your Pet During Diwali

1. Keep Them Indoors

Close windows and doors, draw curtains, and create a quiet environment inside your home to minimize noise and light exposure.

2. Walk Them Early

Take your pets out for their walks early in the morning when the streets are relatively calm.

3. Create a Safe Space

Designate a quiet corner where your pet feels secure. Use their favorite toys, blankets, or crate to make it cozy. Covering the crate with a thick blanket (while allowing ventilation) can further reduce noise.

4. Consider Professional Help

If your pet already struggles with anxiety, a certified trainer or behaviorist can guide you with desensitization and calming techniques.

5. Distract, Don’t Overreact

When pets sense our anxiety, their fear worsens. Distract them with their favorite games, treats, or gentle play to shift their focus from the noise.

6. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy

Have your vet’s number ready and know the nearest emergency clinic in case of any incident.

7. Prepare a First-Aid Kit

Keep basic supplies—bandages, antiseptics, medicines, and any prescribed medication—handy in case of minor injuries.

8. Ensure Proper Identification

Make sure your pet wears a name tag with your contact information. This can be a lifesaver if they accidentally run away.

Helping Community Animals

Street animals face the harshest impact during Diwali—they have nowhere safe to go. Here’s how we can make a difference:

Avoid bursting crackers in areas where streeties live.
If you witness anyone harming or scaring animals with fireworks, report it immediately.
Keep contact numbers of NGOs, local shelters, and rescue teams handy.
Set up temporary safe zones with water, food, and soft bedding in your society or neighborhood.
Spread awareness in your community about celebrating responsibly.

A Kinder Diwali for All

Diwali is meant to spread light, not fear. By taking a few mindful steps, we can make the festival safer and more comforting for pets and community animals. After all, the best celebrations are the ones where every member of the family—including our four-legged ones—feels safe and loved.