Pet exposure to tear gas during Hong Kong protests leads animal rights groups to demand restraint from police and demonstrators
- A distressed cat clawing at its eyes after riot control agent fired in Sheung Wan among reports of animals being harmed in clashes
- Veterinary groups and welfare charities criticise police tactics in plea for calm to both sides
Animal rights groups in Hong Kong have expressed concern over the use of tear gas by police at protests, warning that pets and stray animals are getting caught in the crossfire of escalating violence in the city.
In one disturbing incident, a young cat was said to be in so much discomfort from the chemical irritant that it clawed at its own eyes.
Calling for restraint from both sides, the Hong Kong Veterinary Association said in a statement that tear smoke could be a significant health hazard to the city’s animals, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, coughing and eye problems.
“We are concerned by recent reports of pets being affected by tear smoke,” the statement read.
“We urge all sides to exercise restraint and minimise harm to innocent residents as well as animals.”