Diwali and Pets in Pune: How to Keep Dogs, Cats and Street Animals Calm and Safe During Firecrackers

Keep pets indoors in a quiet room with windows and curtains closed, walk dogs in daylight before the crackers start, and make sure every pet wears an ID tag. That is the core advice from animal welfare groups for Diwali, when firecracker noise peaks across Pune on Lakshmi Pujan night, Sunday, 8 November.

Dogs and cats hear far more sharply than people, so a sound that is merely loud to us can be terrifying to them. Street dogs, cows and birds have nowhere quiet to go.

How do I keep my dog calm during Diwali crackers?

Humane World for Animals (HSI/India) and other groups recommend:

• Set up a safe room. Pick an inner room away from the road, with bedding, water and a few toys. Close windows and draw curtains.
• Mask the noise. A fan, TV or soft music helps a little, even if it cannot block crackers completely.
• Walk early. Take dogs out in daylight or early evening on a secure leash, and avoid streets where people are bursting crackers.
• Let them hide. If your dog crawls under a bed or into a bathroom, let it. Do not drag it out, scold it or force it to “get used” to the noise.
• Stay home if you can. Pets cope better with a familiar person around on the loudest nights.
• Keep ID on. Frightened pets bolt through open gates. A collar with a current phone number is the fastest way home.

For high-rise societies in Baner, Wakad or Kharadi, remember that crackers burst in podium gardens echo between towers. Keep balcony doors shut.

What are the signs of noise anxiety in pets?

Kannan Animal Welfare lists these signs:

• Dogs: trembling, panting, pacing, barking, drooling, hiding, trying to escape, going unusually quiet or refusing food
• Cats: hiding under furniture or in tight spaces, or becoming withdrawn

If your pet panics badly every year, speak to your vet before Diwali. Never give human sedatives or sleeping pills; medicines should only be given on a vet’s prescription.

Which Diwali foods are dangerous for pets?

Keep faral and sweets out of reach. Chocolate, raisins and sugar-free sweets with xylitol are toxic to dogs, and fried, salty and sugary snacks upset their stomachs. Also keep diyas, candles, wires and lit agarbatti away from tails and paws.

How can I help street dogs in my area?

• Feed them earlier than usual, in a quiet spot away from the road, with fresh water.
• Leave a covered corner, such as a society’s parking or a shed, where they can shelter. Do not lock frightened dogs in.
• Ask neighbours not to burst crackers near feeding spots.
• Teach children never to tie crackers to animals or throw crackers near them.
• The morning after Lakshmi Pujan, check on the dogs you feed for burns, limping or missing animals.

Pune Police’s Diwali 2026 firecracker rules ban noisy crackers between 10 pm and 6 am. If someone is deliberately harming an animal with crackers, call 112.

What should I do if an animal is injured?

1. Observe from a safe distance. A hurt, frightened animal may bite.
2. Note the exact location and, if safe, take a photo.
3. Call your vet or a local animal rescue group.
4. Do not apply oil, toothpaste or home remedies, and do not give human medicines.
5. Cool running water may help a burn while help is on the way. Avoid ice.

For wildlife and large animals such as cows in Pune, RESQ Charitable Trust runs a 24-hour helpline on +91 91725 11100. It currently attends to wildlife and large domestic animal emergencies; for injured pets and street dogs, contact a nearby veterinary clinic.

This article is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Consult a vet for your animal’s specific needs.

Frequently asked questions