Keeping Pets Safe During Indian Festivals

Festivals combine several pet hazards at once: unfamiliar people, open doors, rich food within reach and open flames.

Food

Sweets containing chocolate, raisins or xylitol, and fried food that triggers pancreatitis. Ask guests directly not to feed the pet, since they will otherwise assume it is a kindness.

Open doors

The commonest cause of pets going missing. Keep the animal in a closed room during arrivals, and check the ID tag is current.

Diyas and candles

A wagging tail knocks over an oil lamp easily. Keep flames on high, stable surfaces well away from where the animal moves.

Decorations

Marigold garlands, tinsel and ribbon are swallowed and cause obstruction, especially in cats.