Volunteers from more than 10 animal rescue groups are racing against the clock to save thousands of unattended pets in Wuhan after the coronavirus-triggered lockdown has prevented many owners from returning to their homes.

A male vet working in Wuhan who wishes to remain anonymous says his rescue group - Wuhan Pet Life Online - has saved more than 2,000 pets from around the city since January 23, when the lockdown was put into force.