‘Spare A Thought For Stray Animals In This Heatwave’

Jyoti Mishra, the co-founder of NGO Shiv Ananta Foundation, says brutal summer can be lethal for community animals and calls for public action for their welfare. Her views:

As an NGO worker dedicated to the welfare of stray animals, I am deeply concerned about the severe impact of scorching heat and growing concrete infrastructure on the vulnerable creatures. Each year, as temperatures soar, the plight of stray dogs, cows, and other community animals worsens, often leading to untimely deaths and unbearable living conditions. The relentless heatwave, coupled with urbanization, poses a significant threat to their survival, and it is imperative that we take collective action to mitigate these challenges.

The brutal summer heat can be lethal for stray animals. Unlike humans, these animals do not have the luxury of seeking refuge in air-conditioned spaces or accessing a constant supply of clean water. Stray dogs, for instance, suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, and burned paws due to the scalding concrete roads. Cows, which are often left to wander the streets, face similar fates. Their thick coats and inability to sweat efficiently make them particularly susceptible to heat stress, leading to severe health issues and, in many cases, death.

Concrete roads exacerbate these problems significantly. During the peak summer months, these surfaces can become unbearably hot, often reaching temperatures that cause severe burns. This not only affects the physical well-being of the animals but also restricts their movement, making it difficult for them to find food, water, and shelter. The lack of shaded areas and green spaces in urban settings further compounds their misery, leaving them with little respite from the oppressive heat.

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NGOs like ours play a crucial role in alleviating the suffering of these animals. Our primary focus is on providing immediate relief and long-term solutions. During heatwaves, we set up water stations across the city, ensuring that stray animals have access to fresh, clean water. These stations are strategically placed in areas with high stray populations and are regularly monitored and refilled by our volunteers.

Additionally, we organize community awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of helping stray animals. Simple acts, such as leaving out bowls of water, providing temporary shelters made from discarded materials, or even just offering a shaded spot, can make a tremendous difference. Public participation is crucial, as a collective effort can significantly amplify the impact of our initiatives.

Our efforts also extend to rescuing animals in distress. During particularly harsh weather, our rescue teams are on high alert, responding to calls about animals suffering from heatstroke or injuries caused by hot surfaces. These animals are brought to our shelters, where they receive medical care, nourishment, and a safe place to recover. We work closely with veterinarians to ensure that they are treated promptly and effectively.

Moreover, we advocate for the creation of more green spaces within urban areas. Parks, tree-lined streets, and community gardens not only enhance the environment but also provide much-needed relief to stray animals. We collaborate with local governments and urban planners to push for animal-friendly infrastructure that considers the well-being of all living beings within the city.

The challenges faced by stray animals during extreme heat are immense, but with continued effort and compassion, we can make a difference. NGOs, volunteers, and compassionate citizens must work together to create a safer, more humane environment for these animals. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions, we can help ensure that stray animals are not left to suffer and that they receive the care and protection they deserve.

As told to Deepti Sharma

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