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.
Remarkable Canine Heroism: A Brave Dog’s Courageous Act Beneath an Approaching Train to Console Its Injured Companion
“Incredible Canine Loyalty: A Railroad Saga of Unyielding Friendship”
In the tranquil village of Tseglivka, Ukraine, an extraordinary story unfolds – a story that epitomizes genuine friendship and steadfast loyalty among our four-legged companions.
It all started on the railroad tracks when Lucy, a female dog, found herself in a perilous predicament. Injured and unable to move, she lay vulnerable to the imminent danger of approaching trains. Local residents, moved by compassion, attempted to rescue her, but Lucy’s devoted companion, Panda, stood guard, barking fiercely to keep them at bay.
Denis Malafeyev, a compassionate soul, stumbled upon this heart-wrenching scene. He documented their precarious situation in a video that left viewers on the edge of their seats. With trains hurtling dangerously close, Denis knew that any rescue attempt would be a race against time.
As the thundering sound of an approaching train grew louder, something extraordinary occurred. Panda, sensing the impending danger, moved closer to Lucy and nestled beside her. With their heads lowered and their bodies huddled together, they braced themselves for the inevitable. The train thundered overhead, just inches from their heads, but miraculously, both dogs emerged unscathed.
This remarkable display of canine devotion continued for two consecutive days. Panda faithfully remained by Lucy’s side, offering warmth and solace. It’s a testament to loyalty and friendship that leaves us all in awe, prompting us to contemplate the depths of love and compassion that can exist between animals.
When the two dogs were eventually rescued from the perilous tracks, they were taken to a veterinarian for care. Lucy, though battered and bruised, had no broken bones. With the unwavering support of their dedicated family, the dogs embarked on their journey to recovery. Even on the way home, Panda continued to snuggle with Lucy – a powerful testament to the bond they shared.
As time passed, Lucy and Panda healed, both physically and emotionally. Lucy’s injuries were treated, and Panda slowly began to trust humans again. Their story touched the hearts of many, and soon a kind-hearted individual stepped forward to offer them a loving foster home.
This tale of unshakable friendship and loyalty serves as a poignant reminder of the remarkable capacity for compassion and sacrifice found in the animal kingdom. Lucy and Panda, two courageous souls who faced danger together, stand as shining examples of the power of friendship and the extraordinary lengths to which our beloved animal companions will go to protect and comfort one another.
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