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Trier (dpa / lrs) - Leisure and cultural facilities are currently closed due to the corona-related partial lockdown - couldn't a pet help to bridge the lonely hours?
In principle yes, but the Animal Welfare Association in Rhineland-Palatinate points out that rabbits, dogs, cats and birds still depend on the care of their owners after the end of the pandemic.
"We therefore warn against buying pets spontaneously only against the background of the current situation," said the first chairman of the Rhineland-Palatinate state association, Andreas Lindig of the German press agency.
Short-time work or the home office would make animal husbandry easier.
However, it can be assumed that the living conditions of many people would change again when the corona pandemic is over.
“Therefore, people should ask themselves whether the animal still fits their lifestyle.
Especially when they resume their previous work rhythm or go on trips more often, "said Lindig.
Future owners must also be aware of the medical costs that an animal might cause.
Therefore, a purchase only makes sense if there is a strong desire for a pet regardless of the current Corona time.
According to Antje Schreiber from the Zentralverband Zoologischer Fachbetriebe GmbH (ZZF) in Wiesbaden, there is evidence of a greater interest in pets during the pandemic.
Nonetheless, no specific data is currently available, as a survey among animal owners has not yet been completed.
“As far as we know, however, the higher demand could not be fully met.
After all, animals cannot be delivered at the push of a button, ”said Schreiber.
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Dealers had also reported that even during the first lockdown in spring, an increased range of animals such as aquariums, enclosures or toys for the animals had gone over the counter.
It is therefore assumed that many owners paid more attention to the well-being of their pets during this time.
Like the Rhineland-Palatinate state association of the German Animal Welfare Association, the ZZF also advises against purchasing animals from dubious online providers.
Animal rights activists, for example, warn against buying puppies online.
This might support breeders who allow animals to grow up under precarious conditions.
"The more such animals are sold, the more the dubious trade is stimulated," said Andreas Lindig.