As the vibrant festival of Diwali approaches, excitement fills the air with decorations, lights, and delicious aromas. While we immerse ourselves in the celebrations, it’s essential to ensure our furry companions feel safe and happy.
– by Mitu Paul
At Signature Pet Foods, we know that our furry companions too deserve to be part of the celebrations. Hence, here’s how to take care of your pets during this bustling time, with a focus on avoiding hazards and keeping them stress-free.
Transforming your home into a pet haven
Festivities can be overwhelming for pets due to noise and crowds. Designate a quiet sanctuary for your pet, away from the hustle-bustle and noise. Use his favourite bed or a cozy corner equipped with toys and blankets. Soft music can help mask loud noises from fireworks or gatherings, providing a sense of security.
Happy tails, safe trails
With decorations everywhere, it’s crucial to pet-proof your home –
- Decorate with care – Ensure all ornaments, wires, and decorative items are out of reach. Small objects can be choking hazards, while strings or wires can lead to entanglement.
- Choose feline-safe plants – Many festive plants, like marigolds or certain lilies, can be toxic for pets. Opt for pet-friendly decorations to avoid any accidents.
- Avoid scented candles – While they enhance the festive feel, lit candles or diyas should be placed securely out of reach to prevent burns. Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative.
Keep Food and Treats Safe
The temptation to share human food can be strong for pets during the festivities.
- Store food safely – Keep sweets, snacks, and leftovers in sealed containers and out of reach. Be particularly cautious with chocolate, raisins, and nuts, which can be toxic for your pet.
- Keep treats handy: Instead of sharing human sweets, opt for healthy treats. Signature pet foods provide delicious options tailored for pets, ensuring they enjoy festive flavours safely.
Easing the ears – manage noise anxiety
Fireworks and loud celebrations can trigger anxiety in pets.
- Desensitize gradually – If your pet is noise-sensitive, start playing recordings of fireworks at low volumes. Gradually increase the volume over time while rewarding him with treats to create positive associations.
- Calming products – Consider using anxiety wraps or calming diffusers to help soothe your pet during loud events. Make sure you consult your vet before using one.
Paws and precautions
During celebrations, be vigilant about common hazards. With extra lights and decorations, ensure all electrical cords are secured. Pets might chew on exposed wires, posing a significant risk. Be mindful of leftovers after gatherings. Foods like onions, garlic, and certain spices can be harmful to pets. Dispose of food scraps promptly.
Guarding your furry friend
With guests arriving, it’s essential to supervise interactions between pets and visitors, especially children. Educate guests on how to approach and handle your pet gently, preventing any accidental stress or injury.
Rooting for Routine
While festivities can disrupt schedules, maintaining your pet’s routine is crucial. Stick to regular feeding and walking times. Consistency helps reduce anxiety and keeps them comfortable during the chaos.
Mental and Physical Engagement
Keep your pets entertained and mentally stimulated during the festivities. Provide puzzles and toys that challenge your pet. Filling a puzzle feeder with his favourite treats can keep him occupied while you celebrate.
Engage in short play sessions throughout the day to expend energy, reducing the likelihood of anxiety-related behaviours.
Community Connections
Engage with your local pet community during this festive season. Share tips, resources, and experiences with fellow pet owners. Look for local events that include pet-friendly activities, enhancing the sense of community.
This Diwali, let’s celebrate not just with family and friends, but also with our furry companions. By creating a safe environment, being mindful of hazards, and keeping their routine intact, we can ensure they enjoy the festivities. Let’s make this a joyous occasion for all, including our beloved pets, keeping them safe and loved throughout the celebrations.
Happy Festivities by Signature Pet Foods!
(Mitu Paul – Business Head, Signature Pet Foods)