SEOUL, April 7 (Korea Bizwire) — The Rural Development Agency (RDA) recently introduced a number of ways to help prevent depression among pets amid decreased outdoor activities due to the coronavirus spread.
The RDA reported Monday that pets may suffer from the so-called ‘corona blues,’ a symptom of depression coupled with obesity and muscular weakness due to decreased outdoor activities.
To prevent pets from becoming overweight, pet owners are advised to reduce the amount of pet food they serve, and feed pets snacks that are rich in dietary fiber.
The amount of feed differs by the species and health condition of each pet, but normally 80 percent of the recommended energy consumption is seen as most favorable.
Pet activities in indoor areas with an ample amount of sunlight, and frequent ventilation is critical.
“Many pets and their guardians are suffering from accumulating stress caused by the prolonged coronavirus outbreak,” said Kim Dong-hoon, head of the Animal Welfare Research Team at the National Institute of Animal Science.
“An increased variety of indoor activities to build stronger pet-and-guardian relationships will relieve stress and generate psychological stability.”
H. M. Kang (hmkang@koreabizwire.com)