The festival of colours is just around the corner, and our excitement knows no bounds. Holi is the festival that is celebrated all across the nation and the one that paints the streets with hues of joy and brings families, friends, and communities together in a riot of laughter, thandai, music, gulal, and mouth-watering sweets.

But, amidst all the fun, one part is frequently overlooked: our furry pals. Yes, our loving pets deserve to take part in this celebration as well! With a few safeguards and savvy steps, we can ensure that our celebration is not only fun for us but also safe, delightful, and pet-friendly Holi for our four-legged pals.

Understanding Pet Sensitivities

Before we get into the suggestions, it's important to understand that pets perceive the world differently than we do. Loud noises, strange odours, and sudden flashes of colour might be overpowering for them. Dogs, in particular, could get frightened or disturbed during Holi festivities. So, it's critical to assess our pet's comfort level and behave accordingly.

When animals are exposed to colours, whether accidentally or intentionally, it can cause serious health problems such as skin infections, blindness, respiratory problems, and gradual poisoning. Furthermore, trauma, fear, hostility, and even sadness can be caused in pets and stray animals by forced play and loud music. 

Here are some tips and tricks to celebrate a safe and colourful Holi with our pets.

Create a Safe Haven: Set up a calm, safe location away from the Holi festivities. This might be a cosy room in your house or a relaxing spot in your garden. Make sure the area contains their favourite dog toys, water, and blankets. With all the chaos outside, this sanctuary will give them a place to hide away, unwind, and feel safe.

Choose Pet-Safe Colours: To include our kitty in the colour play, it’s important to choose pet-safe colours that are non-toxic and gentle on their fur and skin. Avoid using synthetic or chemical-based colours, which might cause irritation or allergic responses. Natural, herbal colours derived from materials such as turmeric, beetroot, and spinach are safer for our dogs and the environment. To remove holi colours from their skin, choose Bathright Pet Grooming Products to keep them fresh and happening.

Protect their Eyes and Ears: Our doggo eyes and ears are extremely sensitive to unusual objects and loud noises, particularly during Holi celebrations. Using visors or pet-safe goggles helps them protect their eyes from water splashes and colour powder. Additionally, if they are noise-sensitive, using pet-safe earplugs or confining them indoors provides a barrier against loud music and firecrackers.

Keep them Hydrated: With all of the excitement and running around, pooches can quickly become dehydrated. Urging them to drink frequently, remember to keep their water bowls filled throughout the day. If taking them on a walk during Holi, it’s essential to carry a bottle of water and a portable bowl to keep them hydrated on the road.

Monitor their behaviour: Paying special attention to pooh or kitten’s behaviour during the Holi celebrations avoids excessive panting, pacing, or hiding. In these situations, gently comfort them and direct them to their safe area, where they can relax and feel secure.

Post-holi Cleanup: Once the festivities are over, it is time for the post-holi cleanup, which includes pet care. Give them a thorough bath with Bathright Oatmeal shampoo for pups and Bathright Tick & Fleas shampoo for cats to remove any colour residue from their fur. Scrub gently to avoid causing irritation or discomfort. After their bath, dry them with a towel and give them a gift as a reward for their excellent sportsmanship.

Let's make sure that everyone in our family—including the furry ones—has an amazing and inclusive Holi celebration. Following these easy guidelines will ensure that our beloved creatures experience a Holi filled with love, pleasure, and wagging tails.

Have a Paw-ful Holi!

Disclaimer - The information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only and the readers may use or apply the same at their will. We believe in the uniqueness of every pet and its parent. Therefore not every piece of information and idea presented here may be suited to all.