WHILE Diwali celebrations brought colour and festivities to communities, the aftermath left 25 animals in need of care after becoming frightened and lost during the celebrations.

The Durban and Coast SPCA received the animals during the night of celebrations and the following morning, most of which were frightened or had become separated from their owners.

Also read: R2500 fine for breaking municipal by-laws during Diwali

Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, was celebrated on November 8.

Marketing co-ordinator for Durban and Coast SPCA, Krystal Pretorius, said, “We did, however, receive an injured monkey. We anticipate that these numbers may increase over the coming days, as many lost and stray animals are only found in the aftermath of the celebrations. Collections are still ongoing and we expect more animals to come into our care.”

Pretorius urged the public who find a lost or stray animal to contact their local SPCA.

She added, “Pet owners whose animals have gone missing should contact their local SPCA and nearby veterinary practices to lodge lost reports.”

Prior to the Diwali celebrations, eThekwini Municipality urged residents to use only legal fireworks and to exercise caution during Diwali and other festive celebrations.

In a statement, eThekwini Municipality said animals are easily frightened by fireworks and become distressed and try to escape.

According to the City’s Nuisances and Public Behaviour By-law, as well as the National Explosives Act and applicable fireworks regulations, only approved consumer fireworks may be used at residential properties, and only on designated days and during specified times.

Anyone found contravening this by-law is liable for a R2500 fine.

According to the president of the Devasthanam Foundation of SA, Sidney Govindsamy, Diwali is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, symbolising:

• The triumph of light over darkness, good over evil.
• Knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.

Govindsamy said, “It is a time of spiritual reflection, renewal, gratitude and celebration, bringing families, communities and generations together in the spirit of devotion, compassion and harmony.”

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