Diwali is a festival of lights, joy, and togetherness but while we celebrate with crackers and festivities, our furry friends often experience stress, fear, and anxiety. Loud noises, bright flashes, and sudden bursts of sound can be overwhelming for pets, making it essential to plan and keep them safe. Here are some vet-approved tips and pet parent experiences to ensure your dogs and cats enjoy a stress-free Diwali. 5 Essential Diwali Safety Tips for Pets 1. Create a Safe Space Set up a cozy, quiet room with curtains drawn and familiar items like their bed, toys, and a water bowl. Playing soft, calming music or white noise can help mask the sound of crackers. 2. Use Distraction Techniques Engage your pets with games, new chew toys, or treat puzzles to keep them entertained. Keeping them occupied is a great way to reduce their attention to outside noises. 3. Desensitize Them to Noises Well before Diwali, play recordings of crackers at a low volume while rewarding them with treats. Gradually increase the sound over time to help them build tolerance. 4. Avoid Dressing Them Up Unnecessarily While festive outfits may look cute, some fabrics can cause discomfort or restrict movement in pets. Opt for breathable, lightweight, pet-safe accessories instead. 5. Consult Your Vet if Needed For pets with extreme anxiety, consult your veterinarian. They may suggest calming sprays, supplements, or other safe solutions. Pet Parents Share Their Diwali Safety Tips Deepika Malani & GoofyGoofy, 1-year-old Maltipoo “Keep your pet in a quiet, comfortable room with the curtains drawn and some soft music playing. It helps mask the sound of crackers and reduces their stress.” Kavita Rao with Max & TykeMax – Beagle, 5 years, Tyke – French Bulldog, 2 years “At least a week before the fireworks begin, I regularly play

Why should humans have all the fun at weddings? From bow-tie collars to couture gowns, pet wedding fashion has taken a glamorous turn in 2025 and your furry friend is now ready to walk down the aisle (or lawn) in style. Whether they’re the ring bearer, flower pup, or simply the cutest guest, dogs are stealing the show in outfits made just for them. The Rise of Canine Couture Weddings today are more than a union of two peopl they’re a celebration of families, pets included. Couples are involving their dogs in ceremonies, photoshoots, and even entrances. Naturally, this means dressing them in wedding-appropriate outfits that balance charm, comfort, and personality. Tailored for the Occasion The options are endless. Think breathable tuxedo harnesses for formal receptions, breezy cotton bandanas for outdoor vows, pastel bow-ties and floral collars that match the décor, and even customised sherwanis or lehengas for cultural celebrations. These outfits are no longer just cute they’re designed with thoughtful details like hidden harness loops, detachable accessories, and soft linings to keep pets happy through long festivities. When Fashion Meets Fun Couples are using pet outfits as a way to tie their furry friend into the wedding theme. Imagine a dog in a hand-embroidered lehenga scattering petals, or a miniature capelet for the ring bearer that mirrors the groom’s sherwani. The best ensembles not only match the aesthetic but also let the dog’s personality shine be it regal, playful, or sweetly understated. Tips for Dressing Your Dog for a Wedding Comfort First: Lightweight, non-restrictive fabrics prevent overheating. Test Run: Let them wear the outfit before the big day to get used to it. Weather Wise: Breathable cottons for heat, soft insulation for cold. Safety Matters: Avoid loose embellishments or choking hazards. Less Can Be More: Sometimes a floral collar

Think back to when you said “yes.” Was your dog running around? Or was your cat on your lap, quiet but there? Our pets are not just pets; they are our family. So, when the big day comes, leaving them out can feel like leaving part of your heart at home. The great news? The wedding scene in India is changing, and many are making their furry friends part of their day. But how can you make sure your dog feels truly welcome, not just there? It starts with the right place. DHANUSH KUMAR writes about the pet-friendly wedding spots in India where your four-legged friend can join your day. The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie Picture saying your vows with the mighty Garhwal Himalayas behind you and your dog walking down wearing traditional dress. The Fern Brentwood Resort is such a place. With its views and pet rules, it’s a dream spot for those who want their furry pals to see their big day. The resort gives your pet lots of space to run and explore, making sure they have as much fun as you. Aahana- The Corbett Wilderness, Uttarakhand This green resort, in the middle of Jim Corbett National Park, is heaven for nature lovers and pets. Here, your pet is not just a guest; they join in the wild feel. They can walk in the big lawns and green lawns, making your wedding photos more stunning. Mundota Fort and Palace, Jaipur This old palace in Jaipur is like a dream. With its big look and huge lawns, it sets the scene for a pet-friendly wedding. Your dog can lead the way with a custom-made head wrap or join your photo shoot against old walls. The staff are known for being helpful, making sure your pet feels like royalty,

As pet parents become increasingly mindful of what goes into their furry companions’ bowls, there’s a rising interest in ancient grains like millets. Once a staple in traditional Indian kitchens, millets are now finding their way into premium pet foods and holistic diets. But is millet actually good for your pet? And more importantly, is it recommended? Hashtag Magazine gives you a lowdown… What Are Millets? Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that are naturally gluten-free, high in fibre, and rich in essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. They include varieties like ragi (finger millet), foxtail millet, pearl millet (bajra), and little millet—each offering its own set of nutrients. Why Millets Are Good for Pets 1. Gentle on the Tummy Millets are easy to digest and can be helpful for pets with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. Unlike wheat or corn, millets are less likely to trigger gluten-related sensitivities. 2. Rich in Nutrients Millets offer a rich source of natural vitamins and minerals, including B-complex vitamins, iron for maintaining blood health, magnesium for supporting nerve function, and phosphorus for strong bones. 3. Fibre-Rich and Low-Glycemic For pets needing weight management or diabetic care, millets can help. They provide sustained energy release without sudden spikes in blood sugar, and their fibre content supports healthy digestion. 4. Supports a Balanced Diet When used in moderation alongside protein-rich foods, millets can help balance a pet’s carbohydrate intake especially in home-cooked or vegetarian pet diets. 5. Sustainable and Local Millets are a climate-resilient, low-resource crop, making them a planet-friendly addition to your pet’s diet. Supporting millet-based pet food also encourages local farmers and sustainable agriculture. Points of Caution While millets are beneficial, they are not without caveats: Pets are primarily carnivores, especially cats. Millets should not replace protein sources, but can act