ED NOTE
It’s a scary time right now and while we hunker down at home we can count our blessings that our pets are there ‒ providing much-needed solace for those quarantined or on stay-home notice. However, more so at this time than ever, it is a time to circle the wagons and be of service to others caught in the crosshairs of Covid-19.
Help out pet owners: Social media stories abound on households that have been financially upended. There’s a pretty good chance some have a pet or so roosting with them. If you want to make a difference in the most direct way, simply figure out how to make pet food supplies magically appear at the front door of those in need.
Help a shelter out: Let’s state the most obvious first ‒ Donate. Reach out to the shelters as many have reported an increase in animal drop-offs. Now is the time to make a difference.
The SPCA has had to cancel their Tux For Tails fundraising event. It’s a major blow to them as money raised goes towards the care and support for these animals for a whole year. Another heartfelt appeal, this time from across the causeway ‒ NANAS (Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Shelter, in Johor). They depend on guided tours around the area for income, and since Malaysia is in a lockdown situation… you get the drift. Yes, donate please.
Keep in touch with the pets’ community: It’s going to be a long-drawn affair. Food supply chains may face disruptions. Specialised pet food, supplements and medication to prevent pets from suffering or falling ill due to diet change or restrictions, all face jeopardy. Towards this, and other such ends, the rejuvenation of Pets Enterprises & Traders Association (PETAS) could not have been more timely (see News). Finally, don’t surrender a pet right now. Yes, bad things happen, but if you’re able to hold onto your pet, please do. Look around; if you know of friends, family members who are considering drastic measures ‒ for whatever reason, at least offer some temporary respite.
Above all, take necessary precautions to stay safe. Have a plan ready for you and your pet should anything untoward happen. But also, let’s take care of each other and together we’ll all emerge at the other end of the tunnel – hopefully, with only slightly ruffled feathers.