One of the many dogs rescued by HOPE in Pekan Nenas, Johor.
THE financial constraints as a result of almost a year of braving the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with restrictions under the various stages of the movement control order, have driven more pet owners to abandon their furry companions.
Checks with several animal welfare non-governmental organisation (NGOs) in Johor revealed that the number of cats and dogs left on the streets by their owners increased in 2020 compared to previous years.
Johor Baru Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) chairperson Jacqueline Gomez said the number of cases they received related to abandoned pets tripled in 2020 compared to previous years.