Diwali: caution to pet owners

The National SPCA urges pet owners to ensure the safety of their animals during Diwali celebrations tonight and the upcoming fireworks season.
A statement was issued on the NSPCA’s website urging people to keep their pets indoors and try and minimise stress by staying with them.
Distracting them by playing soft music and even consulting with your veterinarian for advice on medication that might assist were also among their list of suggestions.
Fireworks will be used to celebrate Diwali tonight as well as Guy Fawkes early next month.
On Wednesday, President Jacob Zuma extended good wishes to those celebrating Diwali.
“We would like to extend good wishes to the Hindu, Tamil, Gujerati and other communities who celebrate Diwali or Deepavali, as it is also known,” Zuma said in a statement.
The Festival of Lights symbolises the triumph of good over evil and of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance and thoughtlessness.
“May this divine light shower you with peace, prosperity, happiness, success and fulfilment,” Zuma said.