In a statement issued here, HSI/India said that every year, hundreds of animals and birds are left frightened, injured, and lost due to increased air and noise pollution.
As preparations for Diwali begin, animal welfare company, Humane Society International/India, has urged citizens to celebrate a noise-free and animal-friendly festival that prioritizes the well-being of all.
Animal-Friendly Diwali
According to a statement issued by HSI/India, an increase in air and noise pollutants each year leaves thousands of creatures and birds frightened, injured, and lost.
The noise of firecrackers can be frightening to creatures due to their keener sense of hearing. It affects their ears and puts them under severe stress.
For example, fireworks can emit sounds up to 190 decibels, while damage to human hearing starts at 110 decibels. Because creatures, particularly puppies and birds, have much higher hearing sensitivity than humans, the intensity of these sounds can be overwhelming for them and the birds and even cause death.
Around Diwali, animal shelters often experience a surge in cases of lost or runaway pets. Many of those belonging to these creatures undergo immense trauma and anger, even sometimes to the extent of being tormented. Be it a stray dog or puppies barely able to survive, none can be found but labouring along busy roads; the risk they pose is, therefore, all the more heightened, explained Keren Nazareth, Senior Director and Associate for Creatures and Engagement at Humane Society International/India.
We urge everyone to celebrate the festival of illumination as it should be celebrated: with loved ones, lamps, lights, sweets, delicious snacks, and not loud firecrackers.
HSI/India Recommendation:
For stray animals:
• Do not light loud firecrackers
• If you have stray dogs and cats in your neighborhood, make sure they wear tags with their names and phone numbers
• Avoid lighting firecrackers near an animal shelter or zoo
• Provide shelter for animals in a place where they are safe from firecrackers and noise
• Prepare a first aid kit to help injured animals. Every home should have on hand a bucket filled with water to put out used flares in “marooned” emergencies.
On pets:
-Keep your pets indoors in a room. Arrange hiding places for them, such as under luminaries or in a peaceful corner.
– Make sure your pets wear collars and ID tags with up-to-date contact records.
– Make sure all doors and windows are closed to dampen the noise.
– Have the contact number of your vet on your speed dial and verify his or her availability during Diwali in case of any emergency.
– Indoors, try to distract them with treats, toys, or music before the celebrations begin.