Diwali sees spike in pet injuries

Hyderabad: The Humane Society International has released an advisory for pet owners in Hyderabad. The advisory states that, “High-decibel noise during the (Diwali) festival can be traumatic for animals and can lead to many injuries.” Animal rescuers say that rescue operations for puppies and other domestic animals always see a spike after Diwali as many pets run away in panic on hearing the loud noise of bursting crackers. Veterinarians also say that they see many strays injured by crackers.

Devesh Thakur, an animal lover, says, “Some mischief mongers tie crackers at the end of the tails of animals which is just plain cruelty. Animals get terrified at the sudden burst of crackers, often leaving them shaking or barking.”

The advisory asks owners to keep pets in familiar rooms as they have a heightened sense of hearing, the doors and windows should be closed and curtains drawn to reduce light and noise. Crackers should be stored in closed boxes and they should not be burst near animals as it can cause injuries and air pollution which can affect animals as well as humans.

“Pets should wear identification tags with contact information. This will help in animal rescue operations too,” said Devesh.

N.G. Jayasimha, the managing director of Humane Society International India, says, “We can ensure that this year, Diwali is less traumatic for pets.”