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This Diwali, let your celebration sparkle with empathy for your pets, for strays, and for the planet we all share.
Extend compassion to strays by checking on them during Diwali.
As the festive glow of Diwali fills the air, so does the noise, smoke, and chaos that can overwhelm both our environment and our four-legged friends. The festival of lights, meant to symbolise renewal and harmony, often leaves behind distress for animals and layers of pollution for the planet. But with small, intentional choices, we can celebrate in a way that’s kinder to all – from the pets at home to the strays in our neighbourhoods.
1. Replace Crackers With Calm And Light
Fireworks may be a visual treat, but for animals, they’re a source of fear and pain. “Animals, particularly dogs, have more sensitive noses and ears than humans. During Diwali, fires and explosives can be a painful experience for them,” says Adnaan Khan, Founder and CEO of K9 School. The smoke restricts breathing, while loud, repetitive sounds can cause panic and trauma. Instead of noise and smoke, Khan suggests switching to light-based décor like fairy lights, lanterns, and diyas that preserve the festive charm without distressing animals. Gentle celebrations not only reduce air pollution but also make your home environment safer for children, seniors, and pets alike.
2. Create Safe Spaces For Pets
For those with pets, preparation is key. Khan advises creating a secure and quiet corner for them to retreat to when the noise peaks. “It’s important not to cuddle an anxious pet. Let them find their calm on their own,” he adds. Gentle exercise before festivities begin and mild calming aids can also help ease their anxiety.
3. Extend Compassion To Strays
Beyond our homes, countless stray animals face the brunt of the chaos. Aditi Anand, Film Producer and Animal Activist, emphasises the importance of community involvement: “Celebrations should leave behind joy, not fear.” Simple acts of care, like providing reflective ID collars to community dogs or checking on strays during noisy nights, can prevent countless mishaps. “Assign each stray in your area a buddy responsible for checking on them through the night. No dog or cat gets left unaccounted for,” says Anand.
4. Turn Festivity Into Long-Term Care
Your neighbourhood Diwali mela can be more than just fun and food. Anand suggests turning it into a moment of impact. “Set up a stall to raise funds for vaccinating and sterilising community dogs,” she says. Partnering with local vets for pre-festival check-ups or microchipping strays can go a long way in ensuring their safety during and after the celebrations.
5. Care Doesn’t End With The Festival
After the fireworks fade, be on the lookout for new strays who may have wandered off in panic. Offering food, shelter, or posting about them online can help reunite lost pets with their families.
Delhi, India, India
October 19, 2025, 19:44 IST
