Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug. 5: The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has appealed to the public to protect stray and community animals during the ongoing monsoon, warning that heavy rainfall and waterlogging leave them vulnerable to injury, illness and starvation. The Board has urged citizens to extend timely care by providing temporary shelter wherever feasible, ensuring access to clean drinking water and promptly informing the nearest Veterinary Institution if any sick or injured animal is found.
In its advisory, the Board said the monsoon creates challenging conditions for animals living on the streets. Continuous rain and waterlogged surroundings expose stray and community animals to multiple risks, making public support critical for their welfare during the season.
The AWBI has asked citizens to offer temporary shelter to stray and community animals wherever possible to help protect them from prolonged exposure to rain. It has also urged people to provide clean drinking water, noting that access to safe water can become difficult during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Board has further requested the public to remain vigilant and report any sick or injured stray or community animal to the nearest Veterinary Institution without delay so that necessary care can be provided at the earliest.
The advisory also includes a precaution for pet owners. The Board has advised people not to allow their dogs or other pets to roam outdoors during spells of heavy rain, saying the measure can help prevent accidents, disease transmission and other weather-related risks.
Calling for collective action, the Animal Welfare Board has sought the cooperation of Animal Welfare Organizations, volunteers and the general public to safeguard community animals throughout the monsoon. It said compassionate public participation can play an important role in protecting vulnerable animals from the hardships brought by the rainy season and ensuring their welfare during periods of adverse weather.
