COVID-19: Rescue dogs shot dead in Australia over coronavirus restrictions

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.

A Heartwarming Reunion: Owner and Loyal Dog Embrace After Three-Year Separation at Shelter, Spreading Joy Worldwide

At a nearby shelter, an affectionate dog and their devoted human finally reunited after a long three-year separation. This touching moment touched many hearts and inspired people around the globe with its message of unyielding loyalty and unwavering love.

Once upon a time, a heartwarming tale unfolded when a special bond was broken due to unforeseen circumstances. The owner had to make a difficult decision to part ways with their dear furry friend. As a result, the loyal dog found themselves in a shelter, eagerly waiting for the day when they could be reunited with their human companion.

The day everyone had been waiting for had finally arrived. The loyal canine, who had found temporary refuge in a shelter, was about to be reunited with its owner within the shelter’s walls. As the owner walked in, there was an air of anticipation and emotions ran high. The faithful dog seemed to sense its owner’s familiar scent and immediately burst with excitement and recognition.
The reunion between the two was nothing less than magical. The dog’s tail wagged furiously as it leaped towards its owner, unleashing a flood of pure joy. The owner was overwhelmed with emotion, dropping to their knees as the two hugged each other in tears. Their embrace spoke volumes about the depth of their bond, transcending language barriers and conveying a profound connection that had withstood the test of time and separation.

The news about the heartwarming reunion between a human and their loyal pet spread rapidly, capturing the interest of people worldwide. Social media became a channel for this touching story, with the hashtag #LoyalReunion trending as users shared the touching moment. Numerous messages of love and support flooded in, highlighting that stories that depict the unwavering devotion between humans and their animal companions have a universal impact.

This story highlights the significant role that pets play in our lives and the strong emotional ties that develop between them and their owners. It’s a touching reminder that amidst the chaos and unpredictability of life, the reunion between this devoted dog and its caring owner serves as a symbol of hope and a powerful example of the life-changing effects of love and companionship. It’s a beautiful testament to the positive impact that even small moments of connection can have on our well-being.

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