The Festival Of Colors (Your Dog's Version)
"Bura na mano holi hai" is passe. As we move towards consensual Holi, it is time we apply it to dogs. It isn't uncommon to put colors on dogs - often without any ill-intention.
Colors are bad for dogs. Period.
Have you been looking for an easy yet effective way to protect yours and your locality's little ones on this auspicious occasion? Go through these tips and tricks that you can try out in order to keep these babies safe!
What Happens When A Dog Comes In Contact With Colors?
- Extreme loss of fur
- Serious skin issues, infection and itchiness
- Lung and respiratory infection
- Partial or complete blindness
- Can be poisonous if swallowed
- Shock and depression
How To Protect Your Pup?
Your pup is your little baby, isn't he? Protecting him is always at the top of your priority list. Here are a few things that you can keep in mind while you celebrate the colorful festival of Holi.
1. Teach The Kids Of The Family
Children do not understand how harmful these powder colors or water colors can be for dogs and other animals. They do not mean any harm but it sure does have serious consequences. Sit down with all the children of your family and explain to them what's wrong and what's right.
Tell them how harmful these toxic colors are for your precious pooch and all the little fur babies out there on the streets. Once they understand the do's and don'ts of playing with colors near dogs, we are sure they will do everything to avoid hurting these vulnerable babies.
2. Spills And Splashes Happen
If you live with a big, joint family, you may be used to celebrating Holi in extravagantly. On such occasions, it is quite possible that by mistake, some color splashes on your dog. If this happens, do not panic. Immediately take your pup to the bathroom and give him a proper bath while using his regular shampoo.
People tend to overdo things when they are in a state of panic, for example, putting antiseptic liquids while bathing their dogs - do not do that! Your pup's shampoo will be strong enough to remove chemicals from the affected area. Dry him up with his towel and then he should be good to go!
3. Notice Any Serious Symptoms?
Did your dog perhaps lick the colors off the floor and then you caught him cleaning his paws later? This may turn out to be something really serious if it is left unattended.
Check for symptoms of poisoning due to consuming or licking the toxic colors:
- Vomiting
- Excessive drools
- Loose stool
- Behavioral changes
- Extreme panting
- Cries of pain
If your pup happens to show any of these symptoms, immediately rush to the vet so that this matter can be safely and professionally handled.
4. Indoors Is The New Outdoors
We know that your pup loves going for walks. Make sure to put on shoes before you take him out for a walk to protect his paws from the colors on the road. Zoof Boots that are absolutely waterproof and will not let dirty water seep into his paws and cause irritation. Do not allow anyone on the road to apply color on your pup. Also, do not let your pup lick anything.
How To Protect Stray Dogs?
The lives of stray pups are much harder than our pooch. Strays need to fend for themselves, protect themselves and manage to stay healthy all by themselves! Can you even imagine leaving your pup out for even half an hour! What would he do without you?
It is next to impossible to protect all the stray dogs in your city from people who may or may not put color on their precious fur coats and faces. But, you can start small and protect the ones that live in your area or complex.
1. Spread Awareness
Actions speak louder than words. Put up banners and posters, educate people, join a social media campaign that makes sure nobody hurts these strays on Holi. A large number of NGOs send people out on festivals like Diwali and Holi to prevent animal abuse and torture.
If you want to be a part of this protective movement, these NGOs will be more than happy to take you in to speak for the safety of stray pups and other animals. Even a small, little change can bring about a lot of change in a dog's life.
2. Keep A Lookout
Keep an eye on the pups in your locality. Are they getting proper food during this festive season? Are they being tortured by some children? Are they protected enough? If you notice any symptoms that are related to poisoning from consuming colors, call a vet and make sure that the dog is taken care of and his health is stabilized.
Have a blast with your friends and family but keep your little one in mind. We hope you and your pup have a very safe and happy Holi!
What are you doing to protect your dog this Holi? Leave a comment if you have any further questions or suggestions!
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