A council in Australia killed the impounded animals to prevent volunteers at an animal shelter from travelling to pick them up and potentially spreading the virus.
Fifteen rescue dogs, including 10 puppies, have been shot dead by a rural Australian council under its interpretation of coronavirus restrictions.
Bourke Shire Council in New South Wales destroyed the canines, which had been at its pound, to prevent volunteers at an animal shelter from travelling to pick them up and potentially spreading the virus.
“The council decided to take this course of action to protect its employees and community, including vulnerable Aboriginal populations, from the risk of COVID-19 transmission,” the Office of Local Government, a government watchdog, told The Sydney Morning Herald.
The spokesman said officials were investigating whether any animal cruelty laws had been broken.
Five of the dogs had been housed at the pound since early August and one of the dogs then had 10 pups.
The council said staff became concerned for the welfare of the animals due to overcrowding at the pound and two of the dogs attacking one of the others.
A source said the shelter volunteers were distressed and already had COVID-safe measures in place to handle the dogs.
And comedian Ricky Gervais has expressed his disapproval of the killings on social media.
Bourke Shire Council told ABC News the dogs were euthanised because the rescue organisation was from another local government area and they had concerns about people from other communities entering Bourke.
All of regional New South Wales has “stay-at-home” orders in place due to COVID-19.
The council said it had contacted its usual dog rehomer, who is based in the same area, but they were unable to come to Bourke.
The shelter that was supposed to receive the dogs declined to comment.
Animal Liberation regional campaign manager Lisa Ryan has called for an urgent investigation.
“We are deeply distressed and completely appalled by this callous dog shooting and we totally reject [the] council’s unacceptable justifications that this killing was apparently undertaken as part of a COVID-safe plan,” she said.
Australia has recently seen a surge in COVID-19 cases, forcing the country’s largest city, Sydney, to extend its lockdown through September and impose tougher restrictions, such as a curfew and a mask mandate outdoors.
Staff are allowed to work at animal shelters even when lockdown measures are in place, according to the Office of Local Government spokesman.
“Councils are also encouraged to continue to work with re-homing organisations and volunteers to care for animals, where that can be undertaken consistent with NSW Health advice,” he added.
Endearing Dedication: Pup Remains Loyal on Porch Despite Desertion, Inspiring Empathy and Deepening Family Bonds
Few things are as unjust as when a dog ends up in the care of irresponsible and selfish owners. Dogs shower their families with unconditional love, and it’s truly disheartening when this affection is met with selfishness and indifference.
In this heartrending tale, a beautiful pup named Cupid experienced heartbreak when his family decided to relocate and left him behind. Cupid watched in confusion as his beloved family packed their belongings, loaded their car, and drove away, leaving him behind without an explanation.
All he knew was that this place had been his home, and perhaps, if he waited patiently, his family would return. Fortunately, a compassionate neighbor took notice and contacted Janine Guido, the founder of Speranza Animal Rescue, after seeing Cupid sleeping alone on the porch.
“All I was told was that his owners moved out and left him behind,” Guido recounted. She tried approaching Cupid, but he retreated to his safe haven. She watched as he desperately jumped and scratched at the front door, almost pleading to be let back inside. Witnessing this broke Guido’s heart, and she felt a deep urge to help him.
Guido attempted to offer food to gain Cupid’s trust, but he only ran away. After a 30-minute chase, Guido found the right words to calm him down and reassure him. It may sound strange, but Guido swears that Cupid understood her. Finally, he allowed her to leash him.
“On the ride home, she continued to tell him what was happening, as he understood her,” the story unfolds. “He has been nothing but the sweetest gentleman since coming to the rescue. You can tell he’s still really confused. But he is happy to meet everyone with a wagging tail.”
In due time, Cupid will be ready to embark on the search for a forever family. While it’s disheartening to think about people abandoning their pets, it’s heartwarming to know that there are dedicated individuals like Guido working tirelessly to ensure these mistreated animals receive the love and care they deserve.
Once Cupid finds his forever family, he’ll be in the company of those who truly appreciate and reciprocate his affection.
If you ever come across a situation like this, providing a dog with food, water, and temporary shelter while seeking professional help is a compassionate gesture. However, it’s crucial to involve experts who can secure the dog’s long-term well-being and determine the best course of action.
Remember, every animal deserves love, care, and a safe environment. By reaching out to the appropriate authorities, you can play a vital role in ensuring that abandoned dogs receive the care and compassion they require and, hopefully, find a loving forever home where they’ll never face abandonment again.
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