An acquaintance of mine has a miniature schnauzer named Michelle, estimated to be 8 years old.
A purebred herding dog, she gave birth several times and was completely wary of humans when she was rescued.
Her vocal cords had been severed, her teeth were a mess, and she had never been taken for a walk. Until my acquaintance adopted her, sitting on a pee mat was the only life she knew.
Cases are increasing of people accused of keeping cats and dogs in cruel and appalling conditions. In Tokyo, a former dog breeder was arrested recently on suspicion of mistreating more than 100 dogs in violation of the animal law.
The “pandemic pet boom” could be the backdrop for this trend. Yet it is simply inexcusable to treat animals as mere “tools of reproduction” or simply get rid of them.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the pet boom around the world. Locked up for days, many people sought comfort from their four-legged companions.
In Japan, the number of newly acquired pet cats and dogs in 2020 increased by 15% compared to the previous year. Pet stores prospered and their prices rose.
Taking care of an animal is no picnic, it goes without saying. You need to feed him, clean up after him, and vaccinate him. If your pet is a dog, you should also walk it daily.
As “normal” life returns post-pandemic, I just pray that people don’t start neglecting their pets. In the United States and Europe, I understand that a growing number of pet owners are facing rising costs and are entrusting their pets to rescue organizations.
Humans have lived with animals since ancient times.
It appears that more than 10,000 years ago, humans began selecting from packs of wolves for individuals most suited to guarding livestock and other domestic animals, according to “The Canine Clan: A New Look at Man’s Best Friend” by John C. McLoughlin. .
When was this relationship distorted?
Over time, Michelle gradually regained her canine identity. She loves to go for walks and sometimes even makes hoarse yips. His puppy eyes sometimes look like they are closely observing humans, who can be cruel.
–The Asahi Shimbun, March 31
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Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that covers a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives and insight into contemporary Japan and its culture.