Hyderabad: Corona-scared, people throw out pets on road
Hyderabad: Sindhuri Kulkarni, 32, a playback singer spent most part of the day practising during lockdown, but the evenings were set aside for a task that was dear to her heart - feeding strays, rescuing abandoned dogs and coordinating with animal groups.
During lockdown, a number of owners abandoned pets due to fear of coronavirus and pressure from neighbours. Dattatreya Joshi, executive officer, People For Animals (PFA), said, "We rescued around 10 pets in the last two months and also traced a owner from Jeedimetla. We reported to the local police station but no action has been taken. We are waiting to hear from them."
"Abandoned dogs find it difficult to defend against stray dogs. We found an injured two-month puppy and are trying for his adoption." Citing another case, she said that a watchman's wife was forced to abandon three dogs.
Many dogs have been injured during the lockdown. Animal activists attribute it to speeding vehicles due to empty roads.
Several NGOs such as Sarva Jeeva Society, Animal warriors, Feed the Stray and PFA have been working for the protection of dogs. Rajitha, a volunteer of PFA says, "The cost of sterilization in a private hospital is Rs 3,000. Blue Cross used to do it for Rs 1,500 but during lockdown they have stopped."
NO LONGER PAINED
♦ Moved by their plight, dog lovers fan out to bring them under their loving care
♦ Confused, starved & hurt, the hapless animals waiting to be taken to new home
♦ 500 volunteers in city; Close to 50 active animal groups in the city
♦ During the lockdown, more than 70 dogs were abandoned
KUDOS TO CYBERABAD COPS
The Cyberabad Commissionerate dug up pits and placed pots with water at different locations in the city. Several organizations with volunteers across the city have been feeding dogs.
"Thanks to Vasantha Vaddi and Dr J V Ramana Rao, whose contribution of Rs 1.5 lakh each per month, helped us in continuing with the good work. The PFA would not be the same without them."
- Dattatreya Joshi