The COVID-19 outbreak has created havoc that has led to an increase in the circulation of fake news and factually incorrect information. A few days ago, one such myth about animals and pets being the carrier of COVID-19 was spreading like wildfire. After which a surge in animal cruelty and pet abandonment incidents were noticed.
In their press conference, WHO busted this myth and clarified that dogs and cats cannot contract or carry the virus. However, despite the clarification and amidst the panic, various states have seen an increase in the abandonment of pet dogs, especially Mumbai.
These pamphlets which were distributed in housing societies further misadvised people to take precautionary methods and stay away from pets and animals to save themselves from the virus.
I saw three pet dogs, including a German Shepherd, abandoned on the streets of Kandivali. I am afraid that if we take our pets out for a walk, people may complain.
This one “little” mistake of spreading misinformation has led to an increase in acts of animal cruelty. A few days ago, because of the Coronavirus scare, farmers in Karnataka buried around 6,000 chickens alive. Animal Right Activist Vijay Rangare, has been constantly getting calls from animal lovers who are being harassed for feeding the stray dogs.
Not only that, but pet owners are being forced by societies to abandon their pets if they wish to live peacefully . Narrating a recent incident, the Ragnare mentioned:
Today, I was told about a family in Airoli whose electricity supply was cut off when they refused to leave their dog on the street. When they approached the police, the cops said the family will have to abide the societies law’s.
If we would not think of abandoning a ‘human’ family member, how can we abandon a pet.
Upon knowing about the situation, the Animal Welfare Board of India has written to these civic officials, pointing out how their instructions might lead to an increase in animal cruelty.
S.K Dutta the secretary of AWB has also issued a letter requesting the civic corporations to spread awareness about the misinformation and ensure that the animals are not subjected to sufferings.
If you are one of the pet owners who panicked amidst the misinformation, please make effort to look for your abandoned pet. Wherever they are, whatever trauma they’re in, they’re waiting for you.
Feature Courtesy: Mumbai Mirror