Pet Pals

Here’s what you shouldn’t be doing to your pets

Keeping them tied or confined habitually Dogs need company, affection and space, and if constantly kept tied or confined to a small space, they might become aggressive, or bark constantly for attention. This could even affect their health. Tying them constantly violates the clauses of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act.

Beating them Trainers/owners who use extreme force or punishment could scar, blind or even kill dogs. Reward-based training, on the other hand, is compassionate and effective.

Exposing them to extreme weather conditions Special needs should be met: water should be provided, bedding for the winter months and shelter during the monsoons.

Delaying or indefinitely deferring vaccinations This could result in diseases or death. Skin diseases and other health problems, if left untreated, will become progressively worse. Using ill-fitting collars — Collars that are too tight will cut off blood circulation. It should be loose enough to enable you to slip your fist through it.

Temporarily abandoning them When families go on vacation, arrangements for a temporary shelter can be made with friends, relatives or commercial kennels. If it’s a kennel, get the dog accustomed to the place before leaving it there and reassure it that the family will return soon. The kennel should have a contact number for emergencies.

Permanently abandoning them Many pets are abandoned at unfamiliar places due to old age, blindness or failing health. They die of starvation or in accidents. Those left at shelters often starve due to grief. Cats that have been domesticated will also not be able to survive on the streets.

The furry kind is vulnerable to ill-treatment and negligence, so the next time you notice people making one of these mistakes, take a minute to point them in the right direction.

God loved the birds and invented trees. Man loved the birds and invented cages.

An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.

Hero of the week

K. Bobby nominates Dr. Rangabashyam and his wife Chitra. The couple has adopted two mongrels, one of which was rescued during the rains. They have also taken care of an abandoned donkey for many years. They feed 50 birds at 8 a.m. every day — in fact, the birds peck at their window to ask for food.

Know of a hero who has performed of an act of kindness to animals? Write to metropetpassion@gmail.com

Pet Pals is a weekly column that appears on Wednesdays