Left to fend for themselves

One of the many dogs rescued by HOPE in Pekan Nenas, Johor.

THE financial constraints as a result of almost a year of braving the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with restrictions under the various stages of the movement control order, have driven more pet owners to abandon their furry companions.

Checks with several animal welfare non-governmental organisation (NGOs) in Johor revealed that the number of cats and dogs left on the streets by their owners increased in 2020 compared to previous years.