Diwali 2012: Animals panic as noise grips Coimbatore

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-15/coimbatore/35134137_1_animal-rights-animal-shelter-pet-owners

COIMBATORE: Animals across the city suffered the most while Diwali celebrations were on at several households in the city.

"Many pet owners called us saying their pets were either missing or appeared fearful, breathed heavily while the crackers were being burst outside," said Dr Viju Vijayan Pillai, a resident veterinary doctor at the animal shelter in the city.

Meanwhile, animal rights activists say this is a regular situation during Diwali and other celebrations. Deepak Nair, a city-based animal rights activist says Diwali is a terrible time for animals especially dogs. "Though all animals may not panic after crackers burst but a good number of dogs get scared. This is because the dogs have a more advanced hearing capacity than most of the animals," he says. There are several instances where out of fear, they escape from the houses, run long distances and mostly never come back later, Nair adds.

Mini Vasudevan, managing trustee of Humane Animal Society (HAS) says animals that are panic-stricken can be identified through their symptoms. "They show a tendency to hide under the bed. Shivering, excess salivating, a tendency to flee and an increased heart rate are also some of the symptoms," she says.

When the pets panic, they need reassurance, say veterinarians. "A comforting pat can also go a long way to console them. However, if they continue to show symptoms, a veterinarian should be consulted," Dr Viju said.