NEW DELHI: Rising pollution levels in Delhi are taking a toll on pets and street animals, leading to health complications and behavioral changes, according to veterinarians.
Pet owners and animal welfare activists have raised concerns as many animals are showing signs of respiratory distress, including coughing, sneezing, chest congestion, vomiting, and diarrhea.Experts attribute these issues to the deteriorating air quality in the city
According to Sumit Nagar, a consulting veterinary doctor with the Delhi Forest and Wildlife Department, there is an increase in respiratory distress cases among animals.
Animals experience similar health complications as humans, including suffocation, lung damage and respiratory inflammation. During Diwali, additional cases involve shock from noise pollution and burns, particularly affecting monkeys that come in contact with wires.
Pet owners are restricting outdoor activities to protect their animals from toxic air, resulting in behavioural issues such as excessive energy and aggression in dogs.
"The morning smog makes it difficult to take my dogs for walks. Exposure to toxic air causes them to cough and vomit," Sujata Bhattacharya, a resident of Pitampura said.
"Since masks are not an option for them, we have reduced outdoor time, but this has made them more aggressive. Outdoor activities are crucial for dogs to release energy, but even bathroom breaks expose them to harmful air," she said.
Cat owners report their pets experiencing eye irritation and sneezing, with many cats avoiding outdoor spaces.
Ranjana Mukherjee, a pet owner from Gurugram said that her three cats have been sneezing and suffering from eye irritation.
She noted that her cats have stopped venturing outdoors, which is unusual behaviour, and appear lethargic due to current conditions.
Street animals face even greater challenges. Poor visibility during smoggy mornings and nights has resulted in increased hit-and-run incidents, according to animal activists.
"Low visibility makes driving dangerous, and street animals often fall victim to accidents. Without shelter or protection, they are especially vulnerable," said Kanika Diwan, an animal welfare activist.
Street animal feeders are experiencing difficulties in their work.
"The number of feeders has decreased because of the pollution. There's little awareness about how poor air quality impacts animals. Governments often ignore their issues because animals don't vote," said Gaurav, a feeder from Dwarka.
Sanjay Mohapatra, founder of 'House of Stray Animals', highlighted the harmful effects of toxic air on street animals.
"Pollution irritates their eyes and skin, particularly for those living near industrial areas or busy roads. The situation is dire," he said.
Delhi continues to struggle with severe pollution, with thick smog covering the city, particularly during early mornings and evenings.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the "severe" category across numerous areas, creating significant health risks for residents.
Authorities have implemented Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), introducing strict restrictions on construction, industrial activities and vehicular movement.