Dog-Friendly Holi: How to play Pet-safe Holi this year!

As the festival of colours approaches, it's time to gear up for the vibrant celebrations of Holi. While it's a time for joy and merriment for us, it's essential to ensure the safety and well-being of our furry companions too. This year, let's make Holi inclusive for our pets with some tips and tricks for a pet-friendly Holi celebration.

• Opt for Pet-Safe Colors: Traditional Holi colours may contain harmful chemicals and dyes that can irritate your pet's skin or cause toxicity if ingested. To ensure your dog's safety, opt for pet-safe colors that are made from natural, non-toxic ingredients. You can find these colors at pet stores or make them at home using ingredients like turmeric for yellow, beetroot for red, and spinach for green.
• Introduce Colors Gradually: If your dog is not accustomed to colors, introduce them gradually to the idea by dabbing a small amount of color on their fur and letting them sniff and explore it. This will help them feel more comfortable with the idea of being colored and reduce any anxiety they may have during the celebration.
• Protect Their Eyes and Ears: Just like us, dogs' eyes and ears are sensitive too. Protect your pet's eyes by putting on a pair of doggy goggles or using a clean cloth to cover their eyes before playing Holi. Similarly, keep their ears covered with cotton balls to prevent any color or water from entering and causing discomfort.
• Keep Them Hydrated: With all the running and playing, it's crucial to keep your dog hydrated throughout the Holi festivities. Make sure to have plenty of fresh water available for them to drink and take regular breaks for them to rest in the shade.
• Avoid Loud Sounds: Holi celebrations often involve loud music, drums, and firecrackers, which can be frightening for dogs. Keep your pet away from noisy areas or provide them with a safe and quiet space indoors where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
• Watch Out for Signs of Discomfort: Pay close attention to your dog's body language during the Holi celebrations. Signs of distress or discomfort such as trembling, excessive panting, or trying to hide indicate that they may not be enjoying the festivities. In such cases, remove them from the situation and comfort them until they feel calm.
• Post-Holi Care: After the celebrations are over, give your dog a thorough bath using pet-friendly shampoo to remove any color residue from their fur. It's essential to rinse them thoroughly to prevent skin irritation. Additionally, check their ears and eyes for any signs of irritation or infection and consult a vet if needed.