Sneha Bhattarai, who feeds street dogs along her route in Kathmandu, noticed strange behavior in the dogs last Friday. They looked sluggish, and a few showed signs of respiratory distress. Bhattarai, worried about the pollution, was later told by experts that the air quality in the city is bad for humans as well as animals. Veterinarians have noted an increase in health problems in animals, especially dogs, including respiratory ailments, eye infections, and viral infections associated with toxic air. Particularly susceptible are street dogs, which are exposed to pollution for a great part of the day. Another study showed signs of lung damage among stray dogs from long-term pollutant exposure. Experts advise limiting outdoor activities for pets and remaining especially alert for signs of illness. Animal welfare groups warn that something must be done to shield animals from climate change.
Toxic Air in Kathmandu Making Street Dogs Sick
