Protecting your pets during Diwali: Tips to manage fireworks distress

Pet owners are urged to prepare for the impact of fireworks on their pets, as thousands across the country celebrate Diwali on Monday and Guy Fawkes Day approaches, next month. 

The Durban & Coast SPCA offers practical advice on keeping pets safe and calm during festivities, including microchipping, creating safe spaces, and using calming techniques.

As these vibrant festivals approach, homes across the country begin to light up with joy, colour, and celebration. While this festive season brings happiness to many, it also brings unintended distress to some of the pets. The use of fireworks can cause significant stress and harm to animals, both domestic and stray.

As celebrations approach, it's crucial to consider how our environment and animal welfare are affected. We should seek ways to make these festivities more compassionate for all living creatures.

The Durban & Coast SPCA encourages pet owners to get their animals microchipped. This is the best way to ensure you will be reunited with your pet should they go missing during this busy time. They also added the tips to keep the animals safe during the fireworks.

“Keep them indoors in a familiar room and stay home with them., close the windows, curtains, and blinds, have the TV or radio on to muffle the sound, stay in the room with them and act normally, our pets react to our emotions, so if you are calm, they will feel calm, allow dogs and cats to hide under the bed or wherever they feel safe.” They said,

They also added that you should give them something to do, such as a chewy bone to munch on or catnip toys for cats.

“Get herbal calming medication for your pet (most effective when started a week prior to the expected fireworks, available to purchase at your local SPCA or Vet), make sure pets are microchipped or wear ID tags, so you can be reached if they go missing.”

As the festivals approach, Pet owners are advised to be accountable and keep ahold of their animals for any damage or distress caused by the firecrackers.

IOL