Cooper, a Labrador in Sector 45, is finding it hard to breathe outdoors. "I have noticed that Cooper wants to go out in the morning (as per his routine), but faces discomfort in breathing. After I consulted a veterinary doctor, he told me that many such cases are coming to him and it is due to increase in the level of air pollution," said Reema Sen, Cooper's parent.

According to veterinary doctors, nearly 15% increase has been witnessed in cases of coughing, wheezing and chest congestion among dogs post Diwali. "While many cases, especially among stray dogs go unreported, we have witnessed an increase of around 15% in cases of coughing and wheezing. The only way to protect our pets is to keep them indoors. Dogs have smaller respiratory system and thus they are more vulnerable to respiratory diseases caused by air pollution," said Dr ShallyMattooJalali, director, SJ's Pet Care.

Expressing his concerns over cases of tremors among dogs, Dr Jalali said, "Shockingly, many people have reported tremors, especially among stray dogs. It indicates that the nervous system of dogs might have been affected by inhaling polluted air. "

"Even though most vets (even me) are suggesting people to keep their pets indoors, pause in their routine activities can bring behavioural changes. It can cause stress which may lead to reduced reproduction and cardiovascular diseases," said Dr SumitDhankar, a city-based veterinarian.

Vani K Nair, a pet parent in DLF Phase V, has hired a therapist to help Laila (an Indian Spitz). "Laila is prescribed at least one-hour workout indoors, music and aroma therapy so that she doesn't insist on going out for a walk," she said.