Amid the pouring season here and an awaiting cyclone is about to pounce on the southern Bengal and Bangladesh areas, along with your safety measures please remember the following information on how to help street animals during the prevailing storm and rain.
Why and how lives on the streets can be at threat?
It’s important to remember that it’s not okay to leave any domestic or stray dog, cat outside in the rain. Although it’s sometimes inevitable for a dog to get wet in a sudden downpour, it’s terrible to leave them outside in the rain for an extended period. If the creature you’re looking upon gets soaked from the rain, be sure to dry them off properly and have a safe shelter inside.
Give Them a Shelter
During heavy rain, help street animals find shelter in dry places by setting up temporary boxes made of, or covered with waterproof material. You can also make use of existing structures to offer them protection. Here are a few options that can be explored:
- Cardboard Boxes: Cut out a small entrance on one side of a sturdy cardboard box and line the inside with waterproof material such as plastic or tarpaulin. Place the box in a safe, dry, and slightly elevated location to protect animals from the rain.
- Plastic Crates: Place plastic crates outside and cover them with waterproof tarpaulin sheets or thick plastic sheets, secured with ropes to keep them in place.
- Umbrella Shelters: Attach a large, sturdy umbrella that you don’t need anymore to a fence or wall to create a temporary shelter for small animals. Open the umbrella and secure it in place, keeping it tilted to prevent water accumulation. Place a soft bedding material like old cloth beneath the umbrella for added comfort.
Make Arrangements For Food & Water
During the monsoon season, street animals may find it especially difficult to find food and clean water. Consider leaving food and fresh water in safe, dry, and accessible locations in your neighbourhood for stray animals.
- Dry Foods: Offer dry food such as pet kibble or biscuits specially formulated for dogs or cats – these have a long shelf life and can withstand moisture better than wet food. You may also provide them with packaged biscuits as well.
- Wet Food: Provide wet or canned food for street animals, which can be easier for them to consume, especially if they are sick, injured, or elderly. Ensure that the wet food is covered or placed in a waterproof container.
- Rice and Meat: Cooked rice mixed with boiled meat (chicken or fish),salted, and with limited turmeric can be a nutritious option for street animals. This food is worthy, easily digestible, and healthy as well. Avoid using spices, sauces, or seasonings that might be harmful to them.
- Leftovers and Scraps: At least effort and hard work is needed, if you have leftovers from meals, consider sharing them with street animals. Make sure the leftovers are safe for consumption, free from harmful substances, and not overly spiced or seasoned.
While leaving out food for street animals, it’s important to avoid items that are toxic to them, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, or food containing excessive salt or spices.
- Providing Water is a must do: Fresh water should always be available alongside the food to keep the animals hydrated – consider connecting with Water For Voiceless to get free water bowls to keep around your neighborhood.
Keep Contacts At Hand
Build a contact with your local shelter and individual feeders or rescuers in your area – you never know when you might need a helping hand in case a community animal needs help. Volunteering and donating to these groups is an effective way to do your bit for the animals braving the monsoons on the streets.
Author: Mayhuli Chakraborty
As an English Literature graduate, I combine my love for storytelling with my passion for photography. When I'm not capturing moments through my lens, you'll find me petting and rescuing dogs, making a difference in humanity.
