The festival of lights may be a time of celebration for humans but for pets, particularly canines, it is a nightmare that lasts nearly a week.
Animal welfare activists say that both pets and community dogs, living on the streets, undergo severe trauma during this period. Animals’ hearing capacity is sharper compared to humans and the noise of bursting crackers causes immense discomfort to them. Due to this, pets and community dogs try to hide in places, where noise levels are very low.
G. Arun Prasanna, an animal welfare activist, said that every year, during Deepavali, a good number of pets flee from their houses due to the bursting of crackers. He recollected how a man, whose dog ran away from home during the season last year, had to announce a cash reward for anyone who found the pet.
In order to avoid such losses, Mr. Arun suggested that a tag embedded with owner’s details and mobile number be tied around the pet’s neck. This could increase the chances for the pet owner to get his animal back. The tagging method is an inexpensive one, he said.
S.V. Sujatha, a veterinarian, suggested a homeopathic drug that was available to quieten dogs. Recently, an ayurvedic drug was launched. Pet owners have to give one tablet thrice a day to a puppy and two tablets three times a day for an adult dog. This also will help soothe the dog, she said.
Apart from this, owners should ensure that the pet is always in the company of someone trusted. Keeping doors and windows closed could also help. A few dogs are lucky enough not to be frightened by cracker noises, but this is something ingrained right from birth, animal welfare activists explained.
