KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 38 cases of dogs and cats being dumped have been reported around the city during the Movement Control Order (MCO).
Malaysia Animal Association president Arie Dwi Andika said Persian cats and domestic long-haired cats were among the breeds found at the roadside, believed to be dumped by the owners.
"We received information from the public and animal activists via WhatsApp messages," he said.
Arie said that mongrel dogs and mix breeds, with some wearing collars, were also found at the roadside, with many looking scared and messy.
Arie said he believed that pet owners dumped their pets as they believed they could spread Covid-19.
"However, according to the Department of Veterinary Services, pets do not spread Covid-19. People should not abandon their pets as there is no evidence to suggest that cats, dogs or any other pets can transmit the virus," he said.
On April 7, the department explained that Covid-19 infection in animals was isolated because animals cannot contract the virus naturally.
The department added that the cause of infection in animals was through human transmission. – Bernama