Diwali firecrackers: Avoid taking your dog outside during the peak of fireworks. Keeping them indoors can minimise exposure to the loud sounds and flashes (Image: Canva)
Festival time can be stressful for your dogs, especially with all the new noises that they hear this time of year. Dogs have heightened hearing, so things can get a bit scary for them. They can get anxious or even try to flee.
The Humane Society of India has suggested the following measures this year to keep your pets calm during Diwali: Keep them indoors in a familiar room with quiet hiding spots like under furniture or in a corner. Ensure they’re wearing updated identification tags, and keep doors and windows shut with curtains drawn to block noise. Check your vet's availability in advance in case of emergencies. Distract pets with treats, toys, or calming music to make the environment comforting and engaging before the celebrations begin.
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It is important to remain calm around your pet to make them feel safe. Here are some simple measures through which you can help your pet feel safe and calm during the festivities.
- Keep your dog indoors and away from fireworks
Avoid taking your dog outside during the peak of fireworks. Keeping them indoors can minimise exposure to the loud sounds and flashes. Some dogs respond well to soothing scents like lavender or chamomile. A few drops of pet-safe essential oils can help create a calm environment. However, ensure they are diffused gently, as dogs have sensitive noses.
- Walk your dog before dusk
A tired dog is generally calmer and less prone to anxiety. Take your dog for a long walk or engage in a play session during the day. Physical and mental stimulation helps to release pent-up energy, making them less reactive to fireworks later. Plan their walk during the day, before fireworks begin, to allow them exercise and reduce the need to go out later. Always use a secure leash and harness, as loud noises, especially at this time, may startle them.
- Ensure your dog has identification
Ensure your dog’s collar has updated contact information. In case they panic and run, this will make it easier to locate them. For early evening or dusk walks, consider using a collar with reflective strips to keep them visible.
- Create a cozy, quiet space
Designate a calm spot for your dog, ideally away from windows. You can create a cozy environment by adding blankets to their bed, and a few favourite toys. This helps to ground them in something familiar amidst the strange noises. Many pet stores offer calming diffusers and sprays that release dog-safe pheromones to create a soothing environment. Using one in their quiet area can help relieve stress.
- Avoid confining them to one room
Restricting them to a single room may increase stress. Allow them access to multiple spaces so they can choose where they feel safest. If possible, provide a few quiet areas throughout the house for them to choose from. Dogs may instinctively want to seek a new space as their comfort levels change.
- Distract your dog with music or white noise
Play soothing music, turn on the TV, or use a fan to create white noise to mask the sound of fireworks. Classical music, in particular, can help to calm pets during stressful times. Apps like “Relax My Dog” or platforms like YouTube offer playlists designed for pets. Consider leaving a fan or humidifier on to create consistent white noise. Some pet owners also try dog-safe ear muffs for further sound dampening. Make sure to introduce these in advance so they are familiar.
- Close curtains and windows
Reduce exposure to flashing lights and loud sounds by closing curtains and windows. If possible, add extra layers, like thick curtains, to dampen sounds further. Dim the lights inside, as dogs may react to sudden flashes by becoming restless or fearful.
Secure doors, windows, and gates to prevent your dog from running outside if they become panicked. If you have outdoor areas like a balcony or garden, double-check that access points are locked.
- Offer comfort in a calm manner
Stay indoors and offer your dog reassurance with gentle pets and a calm voice. Avoid excessive coddling, as this can reinforce their fear. Instead, maintain a calm tone, pet them gently, and keep a relaxed demeanour.
- Desensitise your dog over time
Leading up to Diwali, you can play low-volume firework sounds for short periods to help your dog acclimate. Gradually increase the volume over time, rewarding calm behaviour to build tolerance. Use treats or their favourite toy as a reward for calmness when exposed to these sounds, reinforcing their ability to handle the noise.
- Consult your vet if necessary
For dogs with intense anxiety, discuss options like calming supplements, CBD (pet-approved), or anti-anxiety medication with your vet. Your vet may also recommend training techniques or behavioural modifications to help your dog cope more effectively.
With these steps, you can help make Diwali a less stressful experience for your dog and a more peaceful time for everyone.
