Animals can be a great source of joy during lockdown. But we too need to do our bit to keep them safe, says Varda Mehrotra

The world today has come to an almost complete standstill while grappling with an unprecedented crisis. The Coronavirus pandemic has impaired world economies, left the streets deserted and minds full of chaos. Children and adults confined in their homes are experiencing an extraordinary situation. In this grim scenario, companion animals have proved to be great source of positive energy especially in these challenging times. Man’s best friend, indeed.

As we enter week three of the lockdown, there are reports of several people including children fighting depression and other mental health issues on account of being confined indoors. It is tough keeping children brimming with raw energy engaged while juggling work from home and household loads. Research tells us that even as little as 10 minutes of interaction with cats and dogs produces a significant reduction in cortisol — a major stress hormone. Animals, especially dogs and cats, can help reduce stress, anxiety, depression and ease loneliness.

However, animals are invariably bearing the brunt of the lockdown. Strays rely on dhabas or subzi-mandis (vegetable markets) for food. And they are now starving. Pedigreed animals too do not have it any better as they are dying slow deaths in locked-up pet shops. Access to medicine and care is hard to come by. Food, water and bare essentials are vanishing overnight. Hunger, unfortunately, does not discriminate. Well, the suffering of animals sadly goes unnoticed. Add to that, misinformation and rumours which worsen their plight.

NGOs working with animals are flooded with queries on feeding street animals, availability of emergency veterinarian services, abandoning of pets and functionality of animal shelters during the COVID-19 lockdown.

It was being brought to notice that animal owners were leaving their pets to stray without proper food, water or shelter due to the spread of the virus. In this regard, the WHO clarified that dogs and cats are not involved in spreading infection in the current episode of Coronavirus infection. Post this, an advisory was issued urging people to allot time to animal feeders to provide food and water for street animals and birds.

Since the government has now recognised the issue, the need for veterinary help and street feeding — all continue to be essential services permitted during the lockdown. Despite that myths and misinformation are doing rounds and animal activists are being harassed.

Here are some small daily measures which people can take to ensure health and safety of stray animals:

• Place water and food bowls outside your houses.
• Coordinate with other residents in your neighbourhood to ensure strays in your locality do not go hungry.
• Speak to your local authorities or animal welfare organisations for assistance to animals as they will have access to the right information and aid for animals in such times.

Well, companion animals too need looking after during this challenging phase:

• Guardians should closely monitor the decisions that are being taken for the safekeeping of companion animals.
• Maintain hygiene of companion animals.
• Ensure that housed animals are kept mentally stimulated through indoor games, if they aren’t permitted to go out for daily walks.
• Keep water bowls outside their shelters.

There is a resource centre for NGOs and individuals who need support in these times to treat and feed animals. A COVID-19 response team as well as one which can offer support for any legal problems have also been formed. If you need food/medicine you can connect with other, local member organisations.

(The writer is executive director, Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisation.)