Animal welfare organisations have formed rescue teams to save injured animals
A rabbit being treated for burns caused by crackers during last Deepavali. -File Picture
Chennai: Every year, during Deepavali, hundreds of pets run away from homes as they fear the sound of crackers. While 125 decibels is the threshold sound level that humans can hear, it is higher for animals. Dogs can hear tenfold higher and cats can hear twelvefold higher than a human being. This Deepavali, pets can be protected from sound pollution and injuries with precautionary measures, say experts.
“Stress levels are higher in birds than in other animals when they are exposed to loud noise. Having them indoors and away from sound keeps them calm. In dogs, it is important to introduce sound levels gradually when they are young during their socialising period,” said veterinarian, Dr Jayaprakash.Pheromone, a scent that calms animal hormones, is available in a container that can be plugged into the socket like mosquito repellent to produce the odour. It is sold in the market for around Rs1,000.
“Anxiety medicines can reduce the tension that is caused in pets when they hear loud noises. While domestic cattle are more prone to hearing such sounds, it is the pet animals which get easily scared,” said Dr F.M. Jerold, animal behaviourist.According to him, dogs can be trained to cracker noises by slowly introducing them to the sounds and letting them watch it. Staying with them during the act helps them understand that it is not a disturbing activity and lets them get accustomed to it gradually.
“Chinese crackers are louder than Indian ones. Loud noises can cause heart attacks in animals. Last year, around 38 dogs were injured during Deepavali and brought for treatment. As the climatic conditions are suitable for breeding of birds and squirrels, many young ones have recently died in the city due to pollution,” he added. Speaking about the concern of today’s youngsters over animals, Mr Dawn Williams, general manager, Blue Cross of India, said they are more responsible than the previous generation and it only takes an awareness drive to celebrate an animal-friendly Deepavali.
Animal welfare organisations in the city have formed rescue teams to save injured animals during Deepavali and give them first-aid. They can be contacted at toll free number 180030101900 and 98842 94742, 96771 49451 for help to treat animals and provide shelter.Microchips containing owner details made of biodegradable materials are available in the market. These can be injected into the animals and scanned further to read the ownership of the animal when it is lost.
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