Diwali 2025: How can you keep your dog safe this festival season?

Worried about your dog’s wellbeing during Diwali celebrations? Discover essential dos and don’ts for pet care, learn which festive foods to avoid, and find out how to protect your furry friend from stress and harm this year.

New Delhi: Diwali, the festival of lights, brings joy, colors, and celebration to millions. But for many pet owners, especially dog parents, the festivities can also mean stress and danger for their beloved companions. With loud fireworks, unfamiliar visitors, and tempting treats everywhere, dogs may feel anxious or face health risks.

To ensure your dog enjoys Diwali safely, it’s vital to follow some important care tips.

Dos: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Comfortable

Create a Safe Space: Dogs can get overwhelmed by the noise and commotion. Set up a quiet, cozy spot in your home where your dog can retreat during fireworks or busy celebrations. Add their favorite bed, toys, and maybe some calming music.

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Stick to Their Routine: Amid the excitement, maintaining your dog’s regular feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.

Use Calming Aids if Needed: Consult your vet about calming sprays, anxiety wraps, or supplements designed to help pets cope with stress during festivals.

Keep Identification Updated: With visitors and distractions, dogs can sometimes slip outside unnoticed. Ensure your pet’s collar and microchip details are current to increase the chance of a safe return if they get lost.

Don’ts: What to Avoid for Your Dog’s Safety

Don’t Leave Dogs Unattended Outside: Fireworks and crowds can spook dogs, causing them to run off or injure themselves. Keep your dog indoors and supervised at all times during the festival.

Avoid Loud Fireworks Near Pets: Firecrackers cause noise pollution and distress to dogs. Minimize their exposure and choose quieter or eco-friendly alternatives if possible.

Don’t Give Your Dog Festive Sweets or Human Food: Many traditional Diwali sweets contain ingredients harmful to dogs, such as sugar, chocolate, nuts, and spices. Feeding your dog these can lead to serious health issues including digestive upset or poisoning.

Foods and Treats to Avoid During Diwali

Certain popular Diwali foods can be dangerous for dogs and should be strictly avoided:

Chocolate: Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

Nuts (especially almonds and cashews): Hard to digest and may cause choking or pancreatitis.

Sweets with Xylitol or Artificial Sweeteners: Extremely toxic and can cause sudden drops in blood sugar.

Spicy or Fried Snacks: Can upset your dog’s stomach and cause gastrointestinal distress.

Grapes and Raisins (sometimes in sweets): Highly toxic and may lead to kidney failure.

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Instead, offer your dog safe, vet-approved treats or prepare homemade dog-friendly snacks to make them part of the celebration without risk.

While Diwali is a time for togetherness and fun, pet owners need to remember that their dogs experience the festival differently. By taking precautions to reduce noise, avoiding harmful foods, and providing comfort, you can help your dog stay happy and healthy.

Celebrate Diwali responsibly by including your furry friend safely in the festivities. This thoughtful approach ensures that both humans and pets can share the joy of the festival without any unwanted stress or accidents.