Gruesome reality of animal abuse in Pakistan

Animal abuse is a serious global issue with the most cases reported in lesser developed countries. That being said, in Pakistan it’s so commonly seen that it’s hard to distinguish it from usual happenings. This is mainly because of the arrogant and stubborn mentality of people around us who see no problem in harm of these unlucky creatures. From donkeys to dogs to birds…..Mistreatment of these animals is astonishing. Animal welfares and other concerned individuals have and are trying their maximum but their work has bore no fruit. The neglect showed by both government and people has increased the severity to an extent where even foreign nations are forced to intervene. Some reliable statistics and horrific examples are listed.

Every year, more than 50000 stray dogs are killed across Pakistan. In March 2021, the municipal authorities in different districts of the Punjab approved a target of culling 25000 stray dogs in a span of 60 days. These dogs were shot or poisoned and then disposed of. The only law regarding animal rights being practiced in Pakistan is the “Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1890” introduced during the British colonial rule, Acknowledging that animals can feel pain and sufferings.

Zoos are considered as places of joy and security but even there these animals are not safe, in fact Pakistan has had one of the worst track records regarding animal health and safety conditions in zoos. Noor Jehan, an African elephant, which have an average lifespan of 60 to 70 years, was already in poor health when she fell into a pond last month and was unable to get up, She later died. Two lions died in Islamabad’s now closed zoo in 2020 while being transferred, and in 2021 a rare white lion died in Karachi. Kavaan was said to be the loneliest elephant in the world who, after spending years of solitude due to the demise of his female partner Saheli, developed serious psychological issues and health complications including injured feet and fatigued behavior. These are only the big names who were able to get global recognition……

We need to work to substantially towards this forsaken and neglected issue in order to ignite a much needed change for these animals as well as the country’s reputation.

Researched by: Abdullah Khalid