5 tips to protect your pets during festival celebrations

The free-flowing colour play might be fun for you, but can be harmful for animals. Expert shares actionable tips that pet parents can follow to ensure their furry friends are taken care of. Photo/iStock

Updated On: 2023-04-11 10:04 AM IST

Compiled by : Maitrai Agarwal

The free-flowing colour play might be fun for you, but can be harmful for animals. Expert shares actionable tips that pet parents can follow to ensure their furry friends are taken care of. Photo/iStock

Don't force your pet to participate in the celebrations, or put colour on them
While you may want them to be a part of the celebrations, it's important to respect their boundaries. Chemicals in colours can be extremely harmful for them, it is important to ensure we don’t put any colour on them. Photo/iStock

Take into account the noise sensitivity of your pet
Loud noises often cause anxiety and stress among them, therefore, it is important to create a safe space for them in our houses to help them keep calm and collected. One way to celebrate with them can be to treat them. You can use a calming mist or a pair of earmuffs that will help de-stress your pet. Photo/iStock

Wipe after every walk
Colour play during Holi is usually not limited to a single-day, so it is advisable to clean the paws of your dog every time you take them out for a walk, because if there are harmful colours on the road, it can irritate their skin. Make sure to wipe them down with a gentle pet wipe. Photo/iStock

Pay close attention, and keep medicines handy
Even if you're taking all the necessary precautions, accidents are still prone to happen, keeping a close eye on your pets helps. In case of any minute signs of discomfort or illness, seek veterinary care immediately. Try to speak to a vet well in advance, because many may not be available on call, during the festival. Keep a few medications handy to avoid uncertainties. Photo/iStock

Quick redressal
In case your pet comes in contact with colour through their coat or fur, use a mild, gentle shampoo to wash it off. Time is vital here, make sure to do it quickly to avoid any irritation to their skin and coat. Photo/iStock

Don't forget about stray animals
During Holi, it's also important to care for street animals since they are often exposed to harmful colours and skin allergies that come with it. In case you do find a stray animal around, with colours on them, you can wipe them down with a gentle pet wipe. Ensure you approach any stray during this time with caution, because it is a stressful time for them too. Photo/iStock

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