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.
E𝚏𝚏𝚎ctiv𝚎l𝚢 s𝚊v𝚎𝚍 𝚊 𝚋𝚊𝚋𝚢 kitt𝚎n 𝚏𝚛𝚘m t𝚑𝚎 𝚙𝚎𝚛il𝚘𝚞s 𝚑𝚎i 𝚐𝚑t 𝚘𝚏 𝚊 𝚛𝚘𝚘𝚏.
In a heart-pounding moment of courage and compassion, a baby kitten’s life hangs in the balance as a daring rescue mission unfolds to bring it safely down from the precarious height of a roof. This incredible tale showcases the unwavering determination and resourcefulness of a compassionate individual, whose actions prove that every life, no matter how small, is worth saving.
As the world looked on with bated breath, a tiny, helpless kitten found itself stranded on a roof, its innocent mews echoing through the air. Fear gripped the hearts of those who witnessed the perilous situation, knowing that time was of the essence to save this vulnerable creature from harm.
A compassionate soul, driven by a deep empathy for the kitten’s plight, stepped forward to take on the daunting task of rescue. Armed with determination and a keen problem-solving mindset, they assessed the situation, carefully considering the best course of action.
With ropes, ladders, and a heart filled with unwavering resolve, the rescuer embarked on their mission. Scaling the heights of the building, they navigated the treacherous terrain with utmost caution, their focus fixed on the tiny life they were determined to save.
As they reached the roof, they were met with the sight of the frightened and fragile kitten, teetering on the edge of danger. The rescuer’s heart swelled with both trepidation and determination, understanding the urgency of the situation.
With gentle coaxing and soothing words, they approached the kitten, their presence offering a glimmer of hope amidst the fear that had engulfed the tiny creature. Slowly and patiently, they gained its trust, knowing that every movement had to be precise to ensure the safety of both the rescuer and the rescued.
With steady hands and unwavering determination, the rescuer cradled the fragile kitten, their grip gentle yet firm, protecting the delicate life that rested within their embrace. Step by careful step, they descended, their focus unwavering as they navigated the treacherous path back to solid ground.
As they finally reached safety, a collective sigh of relief resonated through the air. The baby kitten, once perched precariously on the roof, was now cradled in the arms of its savior, surrounded by a circle of grateful and awe-struck onlookers.
This act of bravery and compassion serves as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on the life of another, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It exemplifies the power of empathy and the lengths we can go to protect and preserve life’s precious creatures.
With the baby kitten safely in their care, the rescuer’s heart filled with a sense of fulfillment and joy. Their selfless actions had given this tiny being a chance to experience love, care, and a future filled with possibilities.
This extraordinary rescue story reminds us all to be vigilant and compassionate, to keep an eye out for those in need, and to extend a helping hand whenever we can. It is a testament to the incredible bonds we can forge with animals and the immeasurable impact we can have on their lives.
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