Make your celebrations pet-safe, this festive season

Diwali is almost here and that’s another reason for you to celebrate with your pet. While you're decking up the halls and indulging in holiday treats, it's important to keep your playful pooch safe and comfy. Here’s what you can do.

Watch out for toxic food
Avoid common festive foods: Traditional festive foods can be harmful to pets as they can contain sugar, chocolate, raisins, grapes, and even certain nuts. Make sure to keep these out of reach of your pet. Also avoid feeding table scraps.
Limit fatty foods: While your pet might be tempted, rich foods like fatty meats and gravies can upset a pet's stomach, leading to pancreatitis or other digestive issues. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep them happy and healthy.
Caffeine is a no-go: Ensure that pets don’t have access to caffeinated drinks or beverages kept around during your house party. Even small amounts can be dangerous.

Secure the decorations
Keep decorations out of reach: Diwali decor items like lights etc may look attractive to pets but can be choking hazards or can cause intestinal blockages if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets.
Avoid using real candles: Is your pet a curious and playful one? In that case, avoid wax candles as they can easily knock over, leading to burns, or digestive issues if ingested. Consider flameless candles instead.
Beware of toxic plants: Festive plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can be toxic if ingested by pets. If you still want some greenery in your decor, opt for pet-safe plants.
Be cautious with gift-wrapping supplies: Watch out for ribbons and strings. While they can be fun for cats and dogs to play with, ribbons, strings and bows also pose a choking hazard. Clean up wrapping supplies promptly after gifts are opened.

Other tips to follow:
Create a quiet corner: With guests visiting, and crackers bursting outside, pets can become anxious or overwhelmed. Set up a quiet space in a corner of the home where your pet can retreat if they need to rest.
Maintain their routine: Try to stick to your pet's usual feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as much as possible. A consistent routine can help alleviate stress during the festivities.
Pet-friendly treats: If you want to include your pet in the holiday food festivities, consider baking treats specifically for pets using safe ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter (without xylitol), and oats. Or buy them from a wide range of options available in the market.
(As shared by from Dr Shantanu Kalambi, Chief Veterinary Officer, Supertails)