Toronto Humane Society Shares Essential Tips for Pet Safety During the Festival of Lights 

TORONTO, ON. – October 29, 2024 – Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists worldwide between October 31st and November 1st. The holiday symbolizes the spiritual triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This year, Toronto Humane Society is wishing everyone a safe and happy Diwali and has launched some tips to ensure the holiday is safe for pets as well. 

The festivities are filled with vibrant lights, fireworks or firecrackers, and festive foods. Toronto Humane Society is reminding pet parents to take extra precautions to ensure their animals stay safe, calm, and comfortable throughout the celebrations. 

“Diwali is a time of joy for everyone, and with a few precautions, it can be a safe and enjoyable time for our pets too,” says Dr. Linda Jacobson, BVSc, MMedVet(Med), PhD, Director, Shelter Medicine Advancement at Toronto Humane Society. “By planning ahead, pet parents can keep their pets from stress and potential harm, allowing the whole family to enjoy the celebrations with peace of mind.” 

Create a Safe Haven for Pets

Toronto Humane Society recommends setting up a quiet, comfortable, and secure space for pets during Diwali. Providing familiar bedding, toys, food, and water helps create a calm environment where pets can retreat from the noise and activity of the celebration. 

Identification and Microchipping

For added security, ensure pets wear ID tags with up-to-date contact information. If startled by fireworks and they escape, identification significantly improves the chances of a safe reunion. Microchipping offers further reassurance, and Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services provides convenient microchipping appointments. 

Keep Pets Indoors

Toronto Humane Society advises keeping pets indoors to keep them from experiencing loud noises. Closing windows, curtains, and doors helps reduce exposure to flashing lights and noise that may cause fear and anxiety in animals. 

Maintain Regular Routines

Sticking to a regular schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime can help pets feel secure amid the festive changes. Consistency is key to helping pets remain calm and grounded. 

Firework Safety Precautions

Fireworks, sparklers, and other pyrotechnics should be kept away from pets. Fireworks can cause severe anxiety and, if too close, may lead to panic or injury. Store fireworks out of pets’ reach, and avoid lighting them near animals. Consider purchasing noiseless fireworks or other quiet alternatives.  

Decorations and Dietary Caution

Certain Diwali decorations, such as candles, diyas, and string lights, pose risks if knocked over or ingested. Consider pet-friendly alternatives and use safe materials, like coloured rocks, for rangoli displays that pets might access. 

Additionally, keep sweets, chocolates, and rich foods away from pets, as these treats can cause digestive issues or even poisoning. 

By following these tips, pet parents can help their pets remain safe and comfortable while celebrating Diwali.  

About Toronto Humane Society

Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to improve the lives of animals. The organization excels in all ways an animal shelter should, with industry- leading shelter care, veterinary services, animal training and behaviour consultations. Toronto Humane Society believes in the importance of the human-animal bond, finds new homes for thousands of animals and helps keep families together.
Toronto Humane Society is more than an animal shelter. They are an educational resource and support system, a leading voice in animal welfare and accessible care. The organization is also a centre of excellence, a space where best practices and boundary-pushing knowledge meet with unyielding optimism and a love for animals to create something special. Toronto Humane Society is like no other. For more information, visit www.torontohumanesociety.com.