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Pets Are Being Left in Cages

May 13, 2003 — Unfounded speculation that pets may be carriers of the virus responsible for the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is prompting some individuals in Asia to get rid of their companion animals.

"There has been an increase of animals being left on our doorsteps and being left in the streets in cages," Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Hong Kong Executive Director Pauline Taylor told an Australian Broadcasting Corporation reporter. "The number of phone calls from concerned pet owners has also increased."

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Some people are getting rid of their companion animals only because fearful neighbors are forcing them to do so.

"When rumors that pets could transmit the SARS virus began, people in our housing block got scared and demanded we get rid of (our dog)" said Hong Kong resident Mannie Yiu. "So, we had to give him to my elder cousin."

"There are no signs that pets are able to carry the virus," according to University of Hong Kong professor Dr. Malik Petis, who unintentionally caused many of the rumors when he announced "there (was) the possibility" SARS had originated in animals.

"It is tragic that people are abandoning or killing ... innocent cats and dogs simply out of fear," International Fund for Animal Welfare China Country Director Dr. Zhang Li stated.

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