MANSI BHAMBRI/Dehradun
Experts and animal lovers have urged individuals to act as responsible citizens by ensuring the safety of animals, including both pets and stray dogs, as well as cattle, during the Deepawali celebrations. They asserted that the use of firecrackers during this festival adversely affects these animals both physically and emotionally. To help mitigate these impacts, citizens are advised to minimise the use of firecrackers this Deepawali.
Senior veterinary officer at the Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) Dr Varun Aggarwal stated that the burning of firecrackers on Deepawali not only harms the environment and human health but also has serious effects on animals. He said that dogs, whether pets or strays, are particularly vulnerable during this time due to their sensitive hearing. The loud noises from firecrackers can cause distress, leading to panic and aggression.
Female dogs are particularly affected more and this anxiety can sometimes persist even after Deepawali, impacting their well-being both hormonally and psychologically. While cattle are also affected to some degree, it is primarily dogs that suffer the most. Aggarwal, along with municipal commissioner Namami Bansal, has urged citizens to refrain from using firecrackers to protect animals, who cannot voice their discomfort. He emphasised the importance of demonstrating empathy towards stray and pet dogs during this period.
A representative from the Animal Welfare Board of India, Rubina Nitin Iyer added, “During Deepawali, the bursting of firecrackers and other celebrations adversely affects all animals, including pets, strays and cattle. The loud noises can cause panic in dogs and negatively impact their health. In addition, cattle and birds also suffer due to the commotion.
Pregnant cattle or those that have recently given birth may struggle to produce milk due to the stress caused by the noise, while birds may fall from trees and sometimes die from the shock. Therefore, citizens must act responsibly by limiting the use of firecrackers and providing emotional support to their pets and stray dogs, as well as to cattle.”
