THE Merewest Community Foundation (MCF) is calling on pet owners in the Durban South to be responsible owners and ensure their pets are safe and secure for Diwali on November 8. To assist pet owners, MCF will be giving away free pet calming tablets to 200 families.

Also read: Temple provides insight into the history of Diwali/Deepavali

Premilla Deonath, chairperson of the MCF, said while they are totally against illegal big bangs/ loud fireworks, it still remains their duty to ensure their pets’ safety for the one night.

Process of distribution

In order to assist as many families as possible Deonath will only be giving one per family.

“Please inbox me with size of your dog, small medium or large and breed if possible. I will give one or two tablets depending on size. This is a gentle, calming aid to help reduce anxiety, not a sedative to knock them out. Please still keep your pet safe indoors,” she said.

Deonath added that if your pet has any existing health conditions, pregnancy, very old or too young, please check with your vet before administering it. The tablets can be collected from Deonath’s home.

“We cannot stop the celebration for one night, but we CAN make sure our pets are safe, secure and calm,” she said.

Deonath is also calling for no insults or nasty comments or turning the initiative into a religious debate.

Tips for Diwali

To keep your furry friends safe this Diwali, follow these tips:

• Keep pets indoors well before fireworks start
• Close windows, curtains, play calm music / TV
• Give them a safe, cosy corner with their blanket and favourite toy
• Stay with them, your presence is their biggest comfort
• Ensure gates are locked. Many pets run away in fear

Contact

Tablets will be distributed on a first come and first serve basis. To get the free tablets, contact Premilla Deonath on 081 339 9290.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.