MUMBAI: On World Animal Welfare day, also known as ‘Animal Lovers Day’, &TV’s artists and proud pet parents express their love and affection towards their fur babies and speak up on their wellbeing. These include Sambhavna Seth (Mahua from Gudiya Humari Sabhi Pe Bhari), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), Nirbhay Wadhwa (Bali from Kahat Hanuman Jai Shri Ram), and Tanvi Dogra (Swati from Santoshi Maa Sunaye Vrat Kathayein). Says Sambhavna Seth (Mahua), “People often see me meditating with Candy, Coco and Cherry my furry babies and doubt my sanity, but animals too have mental health issues. Loud noises, inhumane behaviour, or even small fights in the household causes trauma in them. Hence, I take utmost care to rinse off the negativity and pamper them with lots of love. Animals cannot express themselves as openly as humans; therefore, we need to be sensitive to their emotional and mental needs.”  Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma) adds, “Arya and I have been inseparable, but during my treatment, I had no option but to leave my baby at home. Though there were few hiccups initially, many people stepped in to take care of Arya. But when I returned home, she slept by my side and did not leave me alone.

Animals too need utmost care, love, and affection, just like humans, and their welfare is of utmost importance, especially in their parents’ absence.” Nirbhay Wadhwa (Maharaj Bali) comments, “Being a parent to a pet is a big responsibility, and their health and wellness are extremely crucial. I ensure routine check-ups, physical fitness, and a healthy diet for Thor. Animals’ love is so pure and unconditional. As humans, we need to be sensitive to all forms of animals and species around us. It pains me to see when people discriminate and treat animals inhumanly, which needs to stop, and the laws need to be stricter.” Tanvi Dogra (Swati) adds, “I love my baby Oscar, and I can go to any extent to see him happy and playful. But what hurts me is the fact that there are so many strays who need a safe place, care, and affection, but are often neglected. During the lockdown, many many animals were left to fend for themselves and died of hunger. Animals too are living beings, and their welfare is paramount. As a community, we need to become more sensitive and even sensitise others on animals needs and welfare.”