Who doesn’t love the festive season? The food is delicious, people are in high spirits, and everything looks beautiful. But what brings joy to us might not be as enjoyable for animals. Here are some ways you can make this year’s celebrations more relaxing and enjoyable for our furry (and not-so-furry) friends.

1. Use natural alternatives Avoid chemical-based rangoli colours, as your pets or other animals might lick them. Instead, use petals or organic colours. Go for natural decorations, steering clear of toxic plants, scented candles, and other harmful options.

2. Serve pet-safe treats Be cautious about the festive food you share with your pets. If you want to treat them on a special occasion, prepare pet-safe treats using ingredients like pumpkin or sweet potato that are both safe and healthy.

3. Skip the noise Avoid firecrackers and opt for noise-free celebrations. Firecrackers not only cause distress to pets but can severely impact wildlife, especially birds who might abandon their nests out of fear. Instead, use eco-friendly alternatives like sparklers or traditional oil diyas.

4. Create a calm environment With the influx of guests, some pets may feel anxious. Ensure windows and doors are closed to prevent pets from running off. Set up a quiet, cosy space for them to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. Also, inform your guests on how to interact with your pets.

5. Respect local wildlife Be mindful of local wildlife, especially if you live near natural spaces. Avoid throwing food scraps outdoors, which might attract them towards residential areas and lead to potential conflict. Instead, consider proper disposal methods and create designated feeding areas away from your home.

6. Set up bird homes As the festive season is also the onset of winter, consider setting up birdhouses for nesting boxes in your garden or balcony. This will provide birds with much-needed shelter and food. You can also place bird feeders with seeds or grains to help them as natural food sources become scarce.