How You Can Comfort And Help Your Pets This Diwali

The festival of light brings with it an immense amount of entertainment for most of us, but it certainly doesn’t for our smaller, furry counterparts. Dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs and more animals are often left shaking in fear, trembling in corners with little to no understanding of the sudden bursts of sound. Approximately 45% of dogs fear firecrackers and feel tremendous anxiety while trying to calm themselves on their own. Pets too, often run away in fear of their safety, hunting for someplace secure and often end up getting lost. We’ve all read at least one case of animal abuse that involves the use of firecrackers around this time of year.

However, there are things that we can do to help ease animals in these situations, be it for your own pets or animals you take care of in the vicinity. While a plea to refrain from bursting any crackers at all falls flat on many ears across the country — Delhi’s ban is definitely a step forward in this sense, not just for environmental reasons. Let’s at least try and be a little more sensitive towards the other living beings in our community. Here’s how:

I. Veterinary Medication

While we, ourselves, may not be indulging in fireworks and blasting music there is only so much we can really do to control those around us. There are medications for pets that reduce stress and anxiety and can be used. While the memory of stressful events is also known to elevate anxiety, medications such as benzodiazepines help the dog forget such traumatic memories. There are also sedatives that when used in controlled amounts can definitely ease the entire situation.

NOTE: We do not promote the use of any medication on animals without a prescription and upon advice from a certified professional.

II. Make A Safe Space

You can make a safe enclosure either inside or in the vicinity, to shield pet and stray animals from the happenings outside. In your home, find a cosy, and quiet spot (as quiet as possible in these circumstances) and fill it with warm blankets, your pet’s favourite toys and snacks. Close the curtains and windows to shut out as much noise and flashing lights as you can, and make sure your doors and gates are locked.
You, yourself, are your pets safe space, it’s important that you’re there with them when they get scared, as only you can comfort them the best.

Be kind and take in the strays around your house. If you’re not comfortable with having them in your home, at least provide them with some comfort within your compound, even if it’s just for the time being. Giving them some snacks, water and toys for distraction can help. More importantly, keep them away from big crowds and places where people are burning lots of crackers.

III. Mask The Sound With TV or Music
Much like we use music for comfort, it turns out classical music could actually help soothe your pet. While the television is a hit or miss, due to frequent changes/disturbances during a program, it could unsettle your pet — unless your furry friend is used to sitting with you while you watch your programs. In this case, turning on a show that they are already familiar with, will help settle their nerves. However, if you’re really invested in finding your dog some calming music, YouTube, as well as other music applications, have a plethora of music that caters to pets.

IV. Comfort The Animals By Petting Them
Studies have proven petting your dog helps people destress. In fact, work organizations often arrange for therapy dogs to come by, often as a weekly treatment. Unsurprisingly, it works both ways! There’s nothing a cuddle or two can’t solve, more so when your terrified pet knows you’re there right by their side. Stay close, hold them closer till you feel their trembling decrease. Soothing sounds and repeated petting can help put them at ease, as they realise they’re still in a safe environment, with family.

V. Make Your Own Anxiety Wrap

This incredible technique is similar in sentiment to swaddling a baby – humans and animals alike find comfort in slight pressure. You can buy these for your dogs, but also make your own at home, and it’s pretty simple. You can use bandage, cut up an old t-shirt or even make do with a scarf. In a simple criss-cross manner over certain pressure points you wrap your dog snuggly – not too tight – giving them a sense of security. See the entire DIY method here.