Delhi’s worsening air quality crisis endangers lives of stray animals and birds

Delhi Pollution: The deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi poses severe threats not just to humans but also to millions of voiceless street animals, warn veterinary doctors. On October 23, 2024, Delhi’s AQI fell into the “very poor” category, averaging 363 and enveloping the city in dense smog.

In an interview with Patriot, Hiraj Laljani, manager of Celebrity and Public Relations at PETA India, highlighted the dire consequences these vulnerable animals face due to human actions. “PETA India has long been engaged in assessing and addressing the harmful effects of Delhi’s persistent air pollution on the city’s stray animal population,” he stated.

Laljani explained that the impact of declining air quality on animals mirrors what is experienced by humans, resulting in various respiratory issues, including throat, nose, and eye irritation, as well as coughing, gagging, and difficulty breathing. He added, “Air pollution also poses serious risks to the cardiovascular system, leading to heart-related problems in animals.”

He emphasised that prolonged exposure to polluted air can cause birth defects, reproductive failure, and other life-threatening diseases in animals. While veterinarians have long noted breathing difficulties in companion animals, particularly those with flat faces, recent pollution spikes have led to an increase in such cases.

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“Horses and bulls forced to pull heavy loads through polluted streets are especially vulnerable, as air pollution worsens their existing health issues. These animals, already subjected to harsh working conditions, endure even greater suffering during periods of high pollution, leading to lethargy and, in extreme cases, collapse. Such incidents not only endanger the animals but also pose additional traffic hazards,” he stressed.

One noticeable behavioural change in stray animals during heavy pollution is lethargy.

Community animals, like stray dogs and cats, may display signs of laboured breathing, vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive sneezing or coughing, and swelling or inflammation of the eyes, mouth, or skin,” Laljani stated, noting that these symptoms are early indicators of health issues related to air pollution.

“In severe cases, animals may exhibit uncoordinated walking, an inability to stand, increased salivation, and diarrhoea. Although animals are territorial, some may try to seek shelter or escape from temporary pollution, such as that caused by fireworks,” he explained.

“However, when faced with pervasive air pollution, it becomes nearly impossible for them to escape its harmful effects. In contrast, many people who keep companion animals at home, such as dogs and cats, have turned to using air purifiers to provide relief from poor air quality,” he noted.

“The long-term effects of air pollution exposure on animals are profound, leading to reduced lung function, cardiovascular stress, and weakened immune systems. These conditions make animals more susceptible to infections and can, in some cases, lead to premature death,” he added.

“Research shows that dogs with extreme brachycephalic conformation, such as pugs and bulldogs, have shorter lifespans and higher rates of respiratory disorders compared to other breeds. For instance, while the average lifespan for most dog breeds is around 12.7 years, it is significantly shorter for brachycephalic dogs, at 8.6 years,” Laljani asserted.

Listing the measures taken by PETA India, Laljani expressed, “During periods of extreme air pollution, PETA India collaborates with other organisations and local authorities to shelter stray animals and provide them protection.”

“The last census of stray dogs was conducted in 2012 by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). However, the stray dog population is estimated to be around 200,000. The best way to protect these animals from air pollution is by adopting them from shelters or the streets and providing them with a safe, caring environment,” said the manager of Celebrity and Public Relations at PETA India.

He also emphasised that PETA India receives around 100 calls daily from the Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) area regarding animal health and other issues.

“In terms of policy advocacy, PETA India has been actively lobbying the government to reduce air pollution for the benefit of both animals and humans. The organisation has called on the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to support eco-friendly vegan foods, encouraging pro vegan collaborations with local farmers and entrepreneurs,” he mentioned.

Additionally, PETA India has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead by example by serving exclusively vegan meals at government functions, demonstrating India’s potential to become a global leader in the vegan economy.

“PETA India also advocates against the use of loud, smoke inducing fireworks, which contribute to pollution and terrify animals. During festivals like Diwali, many animals become so frightened by sudden noises that they flee, falling into drains, getting lost, or being hit by cars,” Laljani added.

Discussing the specific dog breeds more susceptible to air pollution, Laljani noted, “Certain species of animals, particularly those belonging to breathing impaired breeds (BIB), are more vulnerable to air pollution in Delhi. Breeds such as French and English bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, boxers, and Shih Tzus suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, a condition that severely impairs their ability to breathe.”

“This condition, exacerbated by high pollution levels, can make basic activities like walking or playing extremely difficult for these animals, robbing them of the quality of life they deserve,” he stated.

“Veterinarians in Delhi frequently treat respiratory related conditions in stray animals, especially in flat-faced dogs like pugs, which are particularly prone to breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic conformation. Poor air quality has long been an issue in the city, and veterinarians have observed a marked increase in cases directly linked to pollution,” he claimed.

“PETA India has also raised concerns about the proliferation of illegal pet shops and breeders who often neglect proper veterinary care and deprive animals of adequate food, exercise, and affection. These illegal operations not only exacerbate the suffering of animals but also contribute to the growing problem of animal overpopulation,” he said.

In an interview with Patriot, Dr Har Avtar Singh, Senior Consultant at Charitable Birds Hospital in Chandni Chowk, stated that air pollution in the national capital is fatal for both stray animals and birds.

“Due to poor air quality, birds and animals suffer from respiratory infections and diseases, often leading to death,” he said.

“Pollution also exacerbates existing health conditions in animals. For instance, if a bird or animal suffers from a respiratory condition and does not get clean air, their situation worsens, which can be fatal,” he explained.

Singh also highlighted the adverse effects of firecrackers on animals and pets.

“People should consider stray animals and birds when bursting firecrackers, as they are part of our society,” he remarked.

“They are voiceless creatures and cannot express their pain. Animals become terrified by the sound of firecrackers, leading to shock. Their heart rates intensify, resulting in death. Both cats and dogs fear the sound of firecrackers,” Singh stated.

“While birds have poor vision at night, they still fly when scared by the noise, often crashing into objects and falling to the ground. Many birds sustain serious injuries, and some die due to this,” he informed.

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“Moreover, baby birds are at greater risk; frightened by the sound of firecrackers, they try to escape their nests but often fall, getting severely injured and becoming prey for other animals,” the Senior Consultant explained.

“I urge residents of the national capital to limit firecracker use if necessary. Stray animals and birds are also essential members of our family. These voiceless creatures are scared by firecrackers, so we should avoid them,” he said.

“I also want to emphasise that people should take responsibility. If they find any animal suffering from air pollution-related diseases or health problems, they should immediately take them to the nearest veterinary doctor,” Singh added.