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I am writing to share my sadness and concern about something that often happens during times of crisis: pets being left behind, as reported in the GDN on April 12.
When people are forced to leave their homes because of war, danger, or financial problems, many animals are abandoned. These pets are left alone, scared, and unable to survive on their own.
I have seen this pain up close, and it is something I cannot forget. Once, during a difficult time in my community, I remember noticing a dog sitting outside a house that had been suddenly vacated. Day after day, it waited at the gate, watching every passerby as if hoping its family would return. It refused food at first and seemed lost, confused by the silence and absence. That image has stayed with me, a quiet but powerful reminder of how deeply animals feel loss and loyalty.
It is truly heartbreaking to think about what these animals go through. They do not understand why their families are gone. They only know love, care, and loyalty. To them, their owners are their whole world. When they are suddenly left behind, they feel confused and afraid. Some wait for days, hoping their owners will come back. Others suffer from hunger, injury, or illness. I understand that in difficult situations, people have to make very hard choices. Sometimes, there may be no easy way to take pets along. Transport may be limited, and safety becomes the top priority.
Fear and urgency can cloud judgment, and people may feel they have no other option. But even in such situations, leaving a pet behind should not be the first choice.
There are often other possibilities, even if they are not immediately obvious. People can ask neighbours, friends, or relatives for help. Local animal shelters or rescue groups may be able to take in pets, even temporarily. Today, with social media and messaging, it is easier than ever to reach out for help. I have seen posts where complete strangers step forward to foster animals in need. A simple request, shared at the right moment, can make a life-saving difference.
What concerns me most is what this says about how we treat animals. Pets are not objects that can be discarded when life becomes difficult. They are living beings that depend on us completely. They trust us without question, and in return, we owe them care, protection, and compassion.
I strongly encourage everyone to include pets in their emergency plans. Look for pet-friendly shelters, arrange safe transport options, and stay connected with people who can help if needed. Even small steps taken in advance can prevent immense suffering later.
In difficult times, kindness matters more than ever. Let us choose compassion and responsibility, even in the hardest moments, because the way we treat the most vulnerable reflects who we truly are.
Riya Riyaz
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