The coronavirus lockdown has been hard on animal feeders

Feeding animals is not a crime. Our Prime Minister too in his speech as appealed to the public to take care of animals and birds. It has been overwhelming to see our protectors -- the Pune police -- also helping in quenching thirst and satisfying hunger not only of the needy people but also of the stray animals during the coronavirus lockdown. 

But unfortunately, many areas are sealed due to the lockdown. As a result, animal feeders are not able to move freely. Consequently, our friendly stray dogs, cats and other animals are now struggling for food and water. 

In this time of crisis, we need to consider these animals who are dependant on us. Many animals are being abandoned on the streets owing to the misconception that they spread coronavirus -- THEY DO NOT. 

Even after repeated requests to not abandon our mute friends, we come across cases where they are left trapped in houses or tied to poles. This makes me question humanity. 

Being an active feeder, I too have faced many hurdles concerning feeding animals. 

I remember an incident where a man in my society had abused me and nearly raised his hand just because his wife is scared of dogs. The place where I feed has the least compassionate people -- after a lot of letters and arguments, I can now feed the animals in my area. I feed 38 dogs and ten cats. I give them rice, milk and chapati daily. 

I appeal to all Punekars to please help animal feeders and volunteers who are doing a good deed. Some stray animals are dependant on us for food; otherwise, they satisfy their hunger by feeding on the trash. 

Currently, the limited availability of resources at high prices, coupled with innumerable stomachs to feed, has indeed become a matter of concern. 

We are noticing an increase in abandoning of pets which is very depressing. It’s repeatedly said that animals don’t contract nor spread COVID-19 and the WHO has confirmed this. Despite this, cases of abandoning animals are increasing rapidly. 

My only appeal as an animal volunteer is, please come and help feed these animals. They too are nature’s creation and should be treated with equal respect. Let’s spare a thought for these voiceless. A small slice of bread would not change your world but yes, change the scenario for that soul.

Be kind and compassionate
Spreading awareness is the need of the hour which should actually start from school level. Values of respecting every being on earth should be inculcated right from childhood by the parents.

One imbibes what one sees, correct attitude towards animals or birds too should be an act of compassion displayed by parents, as it is said, charity begins at home. Stray animals have no shelter, no one to care or feed them, their every breath is a struggle. Let us not worsen their plight. 

ResQ Charitable trust for animals, Karma Foundation, Cold Nose shelter and Animal Rescue Trust and many more outfits work with zest to save these souls. Animal Rescue Trust is the only shelter that has a retirement home for animals -- from abandoned to paralysed -- their doors are open for all. 

If we can’t help and love, we should neither be the cause of their agony. 

It’s time to come together in this lockdown and help animals and people who feed them. 

(Anisha Rao is an active animal feeder and a resident of NIBM Road in Pune.)