Cracker of a Diwali? Not for pets, strays

Bengaluru: For animals, Diwali is nothing short of a war. They cower, climb over walls and fall victim to accidents because of the fear of loud crackers.

 “Animals and birds are badly affected. With smaller lungs, the smoke emitted from fireworks disturbs their physiological and psychological functions. Animals and birds stop eating and don’t move from their hiding places. This continues for days even after Diwali,” said Col. Dr Nawaz Shariff, Chief Veterinarian, People For Animals (PFA).

He said, “Pet parents should close all the windows in their house so that their pets are least affected. Also, low-sound green crackers should be preferred. The movement of pets should not be restricted inside the house as they are searching for a safe haven away from noise, fireworks and chemicals.”

He appealed, “We should also be kind and considerate towards stray animals. If we find dogs or cats seeking shelter under stairways, external shelves, etc., we shouldn’t shoo them away as they are also trying to hide themselves from fireworks.

We shouldn’t hesitate in providing some food or water as they are scared of moving out. Within a couple of days after Diwali, they will gradually move out and return to their natural habitat.”  

People tying crackers to the tails of stray animals can face imprisonment. Ms Priya Chetty-Rajagopal, founding member of CJ Trust, said, “Any act that causes Injuries to animals is also a punishable offence. Sections 428 and 429 of the Indian Penal Code, Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960 and the Article 51A (g) of the Constitution make it illegal and punishable offense to maim or cause injury to any animal. The lives of animals should not be ignored or undermined.”

She stressed that police officials should be proactive. “The police should take strong action against anyone who causes injury to animals in the name of celebrations.”  

On the impact on birds, Dr M.B. Krishna, an ornithologist, said, “Loud noise can easily scare birds. Those birds that migrate across continents get scared when they hear sharp explosions.

For bats which fly at dusk, rockets and fireworks in the air can cause a lot of stress. Water birds and others fly away from firecracker proximity, but unfortunately, less greenery might mean they would have to move more.”

He said, “Celebrations restricted to concreted spaces without greenery and away from natural habitats including trees can relatively help.”

Injuries caused to animals can be reported many rescue centres. Hishitha, Rescue Coordinator, PFA said that they run a 24x7 rescue portal for injured and distressed animals, and their helpline numbers are 9900025370, 9980339880, 9845685955.

Charlie’s Animal Rescue Centre’s (CARE) helpline numbers are 9483911110 and 9035999372 (10 am to 5 pm).