Denizens hail pet positivity in pandemic
People bringing home pets during the pandemic claim that it is one of the best ways to counter loneliness and stress during the current Covid-19 crisis. But youngsters in Delhi-NCR are not sticking to any one kind of animal (read dog). Many have convinced their families by getting pets with lower maintenance needs. Fish and cats are among these animals who will not require all your undivided attention.
“Bringing fish home has brought positivity into my life,” says Nihir Vats, a Delhibased law student, who set up a small aquarium at home during the pandemic. “I feed them twice a day and clean the tank once a week. That’s all that’s required! Once the fish get familiarised with the family, you will notice them engaging with you in their own unique ways,” he adds.
Cats have often been dragged, with claims about dogs being better pets than them. But denizens are proving this wrong. Grihsha, a Delhi University student, shares that she preferred to bring home a cat during the pandemic, since it was difficult for her to manage a dog while balancing her studies. “Cats might look evil, but they’re the most loving animals,” she says, adding, “They only require some food and a sandbox. There are no timeconsuming tasks attached to them. In return, you can play with them all day, provided you bear a few scratches!”
Experts advise that the selection of a pet should be made keeping in mind one’s daily schedule. Dr Naresh Upreti, chief operating officer, Animal Rahat says, “Animals are not toys. Just like us, they require love and care. While people bringing pets home may have good intentions, it will be unfair for the animals, if one is not willing and capable of giving them a lifetime of proper care.”
He adds that often people who care about animals are also unable to recognise or meet their needs. “For example, dogs love going outside for walks, but some people keep their dogs on a short leash, yank them or hit them for going astray. If you think you need a stick, you don’t need a dog. And it’s irresponsible to support dog breeders and pet stores when there are millions of homeless dogs and cats who deserve love.”
Bringing fish home has brought positivity to my life. They require bare minimum maintenance. NIHIR VATS, Delhi-based law student