Actress animal lover Nikita Rawal is sending out a heartfelt message to pet parents and communities ahead of the festive season. Acknowledging that the loud sounds of firecrackers can be a source of immense terror and anxiety for dogs, both pets and strays, Rawal advocates for a compassionate shift in how we celebrate. She encourages people to make this Diwali less about noise and more about nurturing and protecting our four-legged friends, recommending ways to turn a stressful day into a pampering experience.

“The sound of crackers is a nightmare for dogs—their fear is real. This Diwali, let’s substitute the boom with comfort. Close the windows, play some soft music, and turn your home into a safe haven. The best gift you can give your dog is peace and a whole lot of extra love.”

Nikita Rawal stresses that the first step to ensuring a dog’s safety during Diwali is preparing a designated ‘safe spot’ in the house, especially during the peak hours of firecracker bursting. Since dogs have a much higher sensitivity to sound, a quiet, interior room, away from windows and doors, can make a huge difference. She advises closing all curtains and windows to muffle the sound and prevent flashes of light from causing panic. For strays, she urges residents to open up community spaces or designated quiet corners where dogs can safely hide until the commotion subsides, ensuring they are not forced to flee into dangerous areas.

Instead of focusing on the noise outside, Rawal suggests pet owners should redirect their energy towards pampering their dogs. This can significantly help in calming their nerves and associating the festive day with positive experiences. Simple acts can go a long way: offering high-value, long-lasting treats like a favorite chew toy or a special dog-safe festive snack; engaging in quiet, indoor play; and spending extra time with them for a gentle massage or a long cuddle session. The actress highlights that the dog’s greatest comfort is the presence of their owner, and being emotionally available provides the necessary security during this stressful period.

Nikita Rawal’s commitment extends to the plight of street dogs, who have nowhere to escape the chaos. She calls upon communities to practice empathy by providing food and water to strays in a sheltered location and being vigilant for any injured or distressed animals. The noise pollution from crackers doesn’t just scare dogs; it also leads to air pollution that affects their respiratory health. By choosing a cracker-free celebration, not only are we protecting our pets, but we are also embracing a more responsible and compassionate version of the festival of lights for the entire ecosystem.