Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time of joy, family gatherings and festivities. But amidst the glowing lamps and glittering skies, it’s important to remember that not everyone enjoys the noise and smoke – especially our furry friends. Pets and stray animals experience Diwali differently, they are often overwhelmed by bright lights, loud noises and chemical-laden air. This year, let’s celebrate responsibly and make the festival truly joyful for all living beings.
Understanding how Diwali affects animals
According to Adnan Khan, founder and CEO of K9 School, dogs have the most powerful sense of smell among mammals, second only to antelope. Their sense of smell is thousands of times sharper than ours, meaning that even a few minutes of exposure to the chemicals in smoke or fireworks can damage their respiratory systems.
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Similarly, the loud noise of firecrackers can cause intense stress, anxiety and trauma. During Diwali their two most sensitive senses – smell and hearing – get overstimulated, leaving them scared and confused.
To help pets stay safe and calm, Adnan suggests keeping them in a quiet, comfortable place inside the home. During peak fireworks hours this area can be enriched with their favorite toys and calming aids like CBD oil. If you’re going out with your pet, always use a secure leash to keep them from getting caught in a panic.
For people who care for stray animals, providing a small, safe shelter – such as an outbuilding or covered corner – can make a big difference. Make sure it is clean, safe and away from areas where crackers are being lit.
Adnan emphasizes, “The wisdom in celebration is compassion – not just towards our two-legged families, but also towards our four-legged families. Opting for eco-friendly fireworks or avoiding them altogether helps protect the well-being of all living beings during a festival that brings light, not fear.”
a kind way to celebrate
According to Aditi Anand, co-founder of Neelam Studios and founder of Little Red Car Films, Diwali is about awareness, not restrictions. “It’s not about telling people how to celebrate,” she says. “It’s just about remembering who shares space with us.”
Small changes can bring big changes. Creating a quiet corner or shady corner where frightened animals can hide helps reduce their stress. Communities celebrating with Diwali fairs can take the opportunity to do something meaningful – like setting up a small donation stall to raise funds for sterilization, vaccination, or animal rescue efforts.
Be cautious after the celebration. Many pets and strays become frightened and run away from their familiar surroundings during fireworks. If you find a lost dog or cat in your area, feed them, take a candid photo and post it to local groups or social media – it could reunite them with their family.
Aditi adds, “Celebrations don’t have to be preachy or joyless. When we make space for others – even the voiceless – it becomes a celebration that’s truly brighter.”
Eco-Friendly and Animal-Friendly Diwali Tips
Choose eco-friendly fireworks or skip them altogether.
Use lamps and LED lights instead of noisy firecrackers.
Keep pets indoors with quiet music or treats.
Create a safe shelter for stray animals with food and water.
Support animal NGOs through small donations or volunteer work.
Spread awareness in your community about pet-friendly festivals.
true spirit of diwali
This Diwali, let’s embrace the deeper meaning of the festival – spreading light, warmth and kindness. A conscious celebration not only protects animals but also adds a touch of humanity to our enjoyment. When we celebrate mindfully, the festival of lights truly becomes a festival of love for all beings.