Here's what people have to say about needing their pets during this dreaded coronavirus outbreak

Alisha Alam | Mar 31, 2020, 13:48 IST
The coronavirus outbreak has taken over the world by storm and has forced people to go into lockdown mode. While it may be difficult to cope without seeing your friends or meeting your relatives in person, your pets can provide comfort to you by being with you during this trying time. And just like you need your furry friends around, they need you too.

Ever since news of the coronavirus broke out, many people abandoned their pets due to misinformation about animals being carriers of the virus. Now, that people are better informed about the situation, it becomes even more important to take good care of your pet and to also assure others that your pet is of no harm to them. A lot of people have stepped up and spoken about how their pets are helping them cope mentally during this dreaded lockdown.

One dog owner said that she takes her dog further away for walks so that no one disturbs them or gets agitated with them. “If people won’t listen or believe, I’ll go the extra mile for Poofu. My mom is bedridden; Poofu does some mad thing or the other and entertains us. We don’t even need TV. So we three are doing fine.” Experts also suggest that pet owners should explain the situation to those who are unaware of the fact that the virus does not spread via animals. It'll help make things so much easier for everyone.

“In tough times like these, our pets need as much love and compassion as we can give them, because they know something is wrong,” says Prerna Uppal, a marketing executive from Mumbai and parent to Czar, a 12-year-old Labrador. “It’s soothing for me to give extra attention to him and soothing for him to get it.”

Another pet owner is stuck at home with her cat Lily while her husband is elsewhere. She spoke about how cuddling can help. “Cuddling up with Lily is helping both of us,” she says. “Since animals, particularly cats, are sticklers for routine, I make an effort to keep to as much of her normal routine as possible, and that gives me structure too.”

Yet another pet owner opened up about how staying connected can help too. “We share recipes of what to cook for our pets, since there is no longer cat and dog food being delivered; we also discuss how to keep our pets safe from prejudice, fear and ignorance.”

Well, this is a time where we must all go the extra mile for our fur babies. So, give them as much love as you can and you'll see just how much love they offer in return. Stay tuned for more updates.



Copyright © 2021 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.
All rights reserved.