Holi celebrations can be loud and vibrant, with people often getting lost in the party. However, one should always be careful not to hurt others while participating in the festivities. For example, the festival could become a time of distress for our furry family members, and autumn when people spray harmful dyes on them, causing skin and eye infections. The loud noise can lead to panic, and they may also ingest toxic substances, often leading to illness.
Be on the lookout for signs of emotional distress, which could include a pet frantically pacing the room or a stray hiding in fear in a neighborhood corner. By being empathetic to their needs, one can create an inclusive festival, which brings joy to all.
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Shantanu Kalambi, Chief Veterinary Officer, Supertails, a one-stop-shop for all pet needs, suggests a compassionate approach to Holi. This could include choosing safe colors for animals, which are organic in nature and do not harm their skin or general well-being. One should be careful not to eat sweets and heavy foods. “This simple choice can make a big difference in ensuring the safety of domestic animals and strays. Second, it creates quiet and comfortable spaces for animals to escape the chaos. This sanctuary can help them feel safe between the noise and the celebrations “, he says.
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Keep celebrations limited to areas away from strays and make sure pets are safely indoors. “Also, be prepared for emergencies. Know the signs of stress and toxicity in animals, and have the contact information of veterinarians and animal welfare organizations. Quick action can save lives,” he explains Kalambi.
Being in tune with your pet’s emotions goes a long way. Just because an animal isn’t visibly distressed, doesn’t mean they’re comfortable. One must continue to observe and remove distressing objects and noises to ensure emotional and physical safety. “By incorporating these suggestions into our festivities, we can celebrate in a way that brings joy not only to us, but to all beings around us. The happiness we derive should not come at the cost of the well-being of our friends furry,” he says.
Also read: To take a pet to a dog park or not? Here is the question
