Don’t abandon, inflict pain to pets fearing spread of COVID-19: Odisha Govt

Bhubaneswar: In view of abandoning the pets due to fear of spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the state government today appealed to the animal owners to refrain from such act.

In a notification by Odisha Fisheries & Animal Resources Development (FARD) Department, all the Chief District Veterinary Officers have been directed to create awareness among animal owners to prevent abandoning their pets or inflicting cruelty in animals fearing COVID-19.

The move came after the government noticed that some pet owners were abandoning their animals to stray without proper food, water and shelter due to fear of spread of coronavirus.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had clarified that dogs and cats are not involved in spreading the coronavirus infection. The current spread of COVID-19 is a result of human to human transmission, the notification stated.

As there is no evidence that animals or pets play a role in transmission of the disease, there is no justification in taking measures against the animals.

In view of the fact, FARD, Odisha urged the veterinary officers to create awareness amongst the public not to abandon their pets or inflict unnecessary pain to animals amidst coronavirus scare.

Rather, it is always advisable to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals by washing hands after coming in contact with the animals, maintaining hygiene and cleaning up pets properly.