Mumbai: Meet the stray-rescuers of Vikhroli

(From left) Ganesh Mangaonkar, Shubham Rane, Ajay Verma, Sneha Bhogte and Aditya Mohite take care of the stray dogs in their locality at Kannamwar Nagar, Vikhroli. Pics/Pradeep Dhivar

A group of friends from Vikhroli is setting an example for the city by coming together to rescue and care for the stray dogs in their locality. They organise activities to raise funds for their food, medical and other expenses, and are currently looking after the second generation of the canines. They are also encouraging people to adopt strays, so that the puppies get a home.

It all started a little over a year ago when Aditya Mohite, 25, was moved by the sight and sound of wailing puppies outside his society, Vikramchandra.

"It was raining and these puppies, who had not even opened their eyes, would slip into water-filled potholes while trying to get up. Of the seven, two died quickly. Then, one day, I took the rest of them to a dry area and used old clothes from home to comfort them. I had no idea what dogs ate, so I gave them basic home-cooked food. Eventually, they grew into healthy dogs - four male and one female named Chinti," said Aditya.

Learnt to care

Aditya was helped by his friends Ajay Verma, 30, Ganesh Mangaokar, 32, Shubham Rane, 26, and Sneha Bhogte, 36, through the journey. Now, they have taken upon the responsibility of Chinti's puppies. "Initially, we weren't aware of the care of dogs. So, Chinti was not sterilised," shared Aditya, adding that they are now better prepared to take care of these canines.

Also read: 300 stray dogs allegedly poisoned in Andhra village, activists fume

Sneha, Aditya and Ganesh feed the dogs

Chinti gave birth to seven puppies, but one died soon and another later from injuries. While two have been adopted, and the group has been caring for the remaining three - two female and one male.

They have a steady flow of dog food, a veterinary doctor on call and all dogs have been administered required vaccines. They also have a first-aid kit with basic medicines, and will soon get the female dogs sterilised.

Encouraging adoption

"We are working to encourage adoption of strays now. The objective is to not only find a loving family for these puppies, but also encourage people to adopt strays instead of buying a pet," said Sneha.

She added that they have begun online initiatives surrounding adoption of stray dogs through their Instagram account, @pet.loverhub. She said another friend is helping them with "cute pictures and videos of these puppies".

Initially, they faced opposition from a few residents, but they remained firm on their stand.

"Taking care of the strays in the locality is more beneficial for us than them. This way we ensure that they are properly vaccinated, so even if there is any untoward incident of biting, we, residents, are safe," said Ajay.

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No. of puppies adopted so far