By: Lee Shin Yii

SUBANG JAYA (May 15): News of pet abandonment due to Covid-19 is bringing disappointment to pet lovers. The views of pet lovers are similar towards the act of pets being abandoned during the pandemic.

“I think it’s ignorant and selfish for people to do that since people don’t abandon their family members even if they are infected,” said Yue Ning, a mixed-breed dog owner.

Lye Mun Qin, an owner of two poodles said: “It is really horrible, irresponsible and immoral for owners to do that,”

“Since adopting them was the owner’s free will, they should be responsible for the pets’ entire life, they should not abandon their pets so coldheartedly,” she added.

Most abandonment reasons were due to the fear of being transmitted by the disease, infection of the disease, or unable afford the expenses for their pets during the lockdown.

Therefore, tips were given to pet owners on several news so that they understand what they can do to protect their pets during the pandemic.

According to the interview conducted, pet lovers are aware of the harm of the disease and are doing precautions to make sure their pets are healthy.

“I used to walk my pets outside quite often, but due to Covid-19, we could only stay at home,” said Mun Qin.

“I will enquire the vet about how to clean and take care of my pet properly in order to prevent the disease,” said Chloe, an owner of a poodle.

Another bad news is, the situation is neither optimistic for animals caged in the zoos. According to South China Morning Post, zoo animals are facing starvation and zoos are having limited food supply.

On the bright side, there are people who are aware of the situation of these animals amid the pandemic and are trying their best to improve these animals’ lives.

“If I have extra dog food at home, I will put some outside to feed the animals to prevent them from starving,” said Chloe, commenting on how she would try to help the strays.

The pet lovers also shared their recommendations for ways to improve these pets and animals’ lives.

Yue Ning said: “The first thing to do is to raise awareness about the situation, then inform people that the strays are starving, so that people can form groups to help with the situation.”

“The government can imply rules and regulations for pet shops to check with pet owners every term, and pet owners should suffer a fine for abandonment of their pets,” said Mun Qin.