Pet owners and animal lovers may be familiar with the way the excessive sound and light during the festival upsets animals.

This is mainly because animals are more acutely sensitive to these sensory stimuli than human beings. “What is bothersome for humans, multiply that a lot more times and you’ll know how animals feel,” says Poornima Harish of Krupa Loving Animals, an NGO.

All animals are affected, but dogs are most psychologically disturbed at this time. “They suffer from phobia, which is different from a normal fear response. Phobias cannot be unlearnt even with gradual exposure,”  says veterinarian Ansar Kamran.

Dogs exhibit a variety of symptoms, such as sucking their tails, poor appetite, hiding under furniture, and in case of strays, under trains or in garages and compounds. While most of them become quiet and withdrawn, some may even become aggressive.

Precautionary measures should be taken well in advance. Pets must be moved from noisy areas to secluded ones like farm houses, or more quiet rooms within the home. They should be comforted and made calm. Sedatives can be administered between eight to 12 hours one day prior to the festival and continued during the period. “While it is safe and there are no side effects, it is important that this be done by an experienced professional,” cautions Dr Ansar.

Stray animals are exposed to far greater danger than their domesticated counterparts. Not only are they prone to thoughtless cruelty by people, they are also victims of fireworks-related accidents. “We get roughly about 25 calls on Diwali day regarding strays suffering from burns and other injuries because of crackers like rockets and bombs,” says Poornima. “Diwali is a festival of sharing and love. Why not make it more peaceful for animals?” she muses.