Coronavirus: Student vet in India feeds strays, netizens in Pakistan share stories of people helping animals

A Delhi-based veterinarian student has been feeding stray animals amidst the coronavirus outbreak and people are commending her for her selfless act.

As lockdowns are imposed in various countries and the world battles the deadly coronavirus, it’s not just humans who are suffering but animals are too. Now, instances of people in India and Pakistan helping strays in need are being highlighted online.

Vibha Tomar, a third year veterinarian student is feeding stray dogs at night and not letting them starve, at the time when animals on the streets have limited sources of food.

Tomar has been posting pictures of herself with animals on the street on her Instagram account.

“I love animals since my childhood as I am a veterinary student. So it is my responsibility to help them,” Tomar told Asian News International (ANI).

“Since coronavirus started spreading, people started staying at their homes but the animals are still suffering the most. Earlier, people used to come and give them something to eat... but now they (stray animals) are having a very hard time. So, I decided to give them food, and I am doing my bit,” added Tomar, as reported by ANI.

Posting a picture on her Instagram page with stray dogs, Tomar, @ vibha_vetlove14, wrote: “Fed 50 Strays today. Will be feeding 50 everyday from today. They really need our help during this time. They were more hungry than the usual days. Please try to feed at least one stray around you. If you don't want to go near them, then please keep food for them. They would come and eat later.”

Tagging Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Twitter user @RAraligidad posted about Tomar’s efforts: “Sir, Vibha Tomar feeding stray dogs in Delhi during lockdown period is highly commendable. Animals depend upon foods thrown by hotels, small shops etc. They are not getting food due to lockdown. Good work by her.”

Additionally, heartwarming stories have surfaced of people in Pakistan also helping stray animals that are suffering and adjusting to the changes caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

Twitter user @reracinated wrote about a cause a veterinarian from Karachi has starting amidst the pandemic and asked people to help: “During the lockdown, animals have been abandoned in cages in markets and pet stores in Karachi. Many have starved and died. Dr. Sheila is a vet working tirelessly to help collect, vaccinate, and find shelter for these poor animals. Please, please, please donate. And share.”

Tweep @haroon21ahmad posted a picture of volunteers feeding monkeys and wrote: “#LetsSupportAlKhidmat (providing relief) not only for helping the humanity, but also for stray animals too, who are hungry, scared and helpless in present #COVID2019 situation in Pakistan due to #lockdown and closure of food shops and street hotels.”