Caring for animals during global crises

2020-05-28 16:38:06 | Written by Aman

All of us are, unfortunately, experiencing these troubled times that the coronavirus virus outbreak has made palpable. To not care about the things that surround us, and becoming aloof or adopting a more inward-looking perspective perhaps seems easier. Incidents of bare survival gain a certain prominence that cannot be neglected, for our own health. But, we have to be considerate of this situation which affects us all- all living organisms irrespective of howsoever narrow or broad factors we may want to categorise ourselves in. Therefore, looking after the animals becomes as much important as looking out for ourselves; if not out of sheer reverence and affection for the living, perhaps for the way we know how our ecosystem is interconnected. Everything affects everything.

First off, let’s clear the decks by being privy to the fact that the risk of animal infection due to coronavirus is low. Conversely, a few instances of the transmission of the ailment from humans to animals has also been brought to light. So, a few pointers to ensure that necessary precautions are undertaken:

• Treat pets as you would treat other human family members to protect them from a possible infection.
• Never put a face mask on an animal, as that can cause breathing difficulties.
• Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
• Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people and animals.
• Talk to your veterinarian if your pet gets sick or if you have any concerns about your pet’s health.

Now, we know that keeping indoors can be a tiresome and boring activity if one is not prepared for it; though right now it is the most efficient measure we can resort to, to help restrict the chain of transmission of the virus. To keep ourselves entertained, while looking out for the general welfare of those around us is an essential practice. For self-quarantine, maintain the frugal stock of your essential needs and the needs of your pets. Please, be humble enough to not disturb the state of mind of the animals around us, especially because of a fear of infection (which, as has been pointed out earlier, is negligible).

And don’t forget-

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. Our natural surroundings- nature and the animals are surely a good company, I believe.