Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus epidemic, over 100 wild animals have been found dead in Chongqing, southwest China – victims of the misuse of disinfectants, according to a Xinhua report. To tackle the pandemic, the city has arranged for over 200 professional monitors and 5,300 forest rangers to monitor the health of wildlife in nature reserves, forests, wild farms and zoos. Their investigation has found that 135 wild animals have died in unnatural ways. They include birds such as blackbirds, light-vented bulbuls and Chinese bamboo partridges, as well as wild boar and yellow weasels. After examination and research by the local animal quarantine institution and animal disease control center, experts excluded the possibility of the new virus infection as the cause and concluded that the misuse of disinfectants was to blame. The Chongqing forestry administration has called a rational approach to disinfection and sterilization of the city's highways and rural areas.

Birds in Chongqing. /VCG Birds in Chongqing. /VCG

Most disinfectants are, by nature, potentially harmful to humans and animals. Hence a safety measure is required. Wild animals CGTN interviewed Shi Yang from Beijing Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center about how they clean and disinfect the center. He said that peroxyacetic acid (PAA), 84 liquid disinfectant and Povidone-iodine solution are the three main disinfectants for animal use in the center. PAA is used to spray large areas such as cages, while 84 and povidone-iodine are for equipment. Before using these disinfectants, the instruction book should be carefully read since different products can have different dilution ratios. For example, the concentration of PAA should not be too high otherwise it may damage the respiratory tracts of animals. As 84 is widely used by Chinese families, Shi Yang recommended a 1:100-1:120 dilution ratio for wild animals, as is used in the center.

Stray cats and dogs are in danger if people misuse disinfectants in communities and streets. /VCG Stray cats and dogs are in danger if people misuse disinfectants in communities and streets. /VCG

Pets No matter whether they live in an affected area or not, proper healthcare is essential for both pets and their owners. First, wash your hands with soap or other cleaning products before and after touching your beloved pets. Same as humans, dogs need to shower regularly; their hair, face and claws also need extra cleaning. All pet items have to be cleaned from time to time with pet-safe and non-toxic cleaners. If you are using 84 Liquid Disinfectant, Shi's suggested dilution ratio may help. During the epidemic, you should try to limit the time for walking your dog outside, but that doesn't mean your dogs have to be kept indoors all day. When you are walking your dog, use a haulage cable to avoid unnecessary touching between your pet and other strangers or animals, and also prevent it picking or touch random objects. Take a plastic bag with you in which to put dog droppings; communities will thank you for that.

A puppy. /VCG A puppy. /VCG