Holi 2023: 7 tips to protect your pets during Holi celebrations

Holi is a festival full of colours, music, and joy, but it can also be a time of stress and danger for animals.

As pet parents, it's important to remember that our pets need special care during Holi especially because of the colours used which are loaded with harmful chemicals. It's our responsibility to keep our pets safe and comfortable, however a lack of information or planning may lead to unfortunate incidents during the festival. Fret not, if you are concerned about and wracking your brain over how to take care of your pets, remember, Holi can be a fun and enjoyable festival for both humans and pets, as long as the necessary precautions are taken - and we've got Ruchika Jain, certified trainer and behaviourist at Heads Up For Tails to share some below.

Don't force your pet to participate in the celebrations, or put colour on them
While you may want them to be a part of the celebrations, it's important to respect their boundaries. Chemicals in colours can be extremely harmful for them, it is important to ensure we don't put any colour on them.

Take into account the noise sensitivity of your pet
Loud noises often cause anxiety and stress among them, therefore, it is important to create a safe space for them in our houses to help them keep calm and collected. One way to celebrate with them can be to treat them. You can use a calming mist or a pair of earmuffs that will help de-stress your pet.

Pay close attention, and keep medicines handy
Even if you're taking all the necessary precautions, accidents are still prone to happen, keeping a close eye on your pets helps. In case of any minute signs of discomfort or illness, seek veterinary care immediately. Try to speak to a vet well in advance, because many may not be available on call, during the festival. Keep a few medications handy to avoid uncertainties.

Quick redressal
In case your pet comes in contact with colour through their coat or fur, use a mild, gentle shampoo to wash it off. Time is vital here, make sure to do it quickly to avoid any irritation to their skin and coat.

No to sweets
Avoid feeding generic sweets to your pets, and keep an eye out for what they might be sneakily eating. However, baking some pet-friendly recipes at home, or feeding them nutritional treats are preferred healthier alternatives.

Wipe after every walk
Colour play during Holi is usually not limited to a single-day, so it is advisable to clean the paws of your dog every time you take them out for a walk, because if there are harmful colours on the road, it can irritate their skin. Make sure to wipe them down with a gentle pet wipe.

Don't forget about stray animals
During Holi, it's also important to care for street animals since they are often exposed to harmful colours and skin allergies that come with it. In case you're associated with a feeder group, try seeking help and educating them about the potential dangers of colours being used on animals. You can also circulate message to your community to raise awareness about the need to keep street animals safe during Holi. In case you do find a stray animal around, with colours on them, you can wipe them down with a gentle pet wipe. Ensure you approach any stray during this time with caution, because it is a stressful time for them too.

Also Read: 5 stunning facts about snakes from Western Ghats