An animal rescue team from Humane Society International/India (HSI) is battling treacherous conditions in Kerala to rescue and rehabilitate animals stranded or abandoned in what is being called the worst floods the State has seen in almost a century.
A team of six HSI India experts has been operating in Nilambur and Tirur, among Kerala’s worst affected regions, for the past four days.
The group has been working with the Government of Kerala and the National Disaster Response Force to locate and rescue dogs, cats and other animals left behind in evacuations.
It is also providing essential medicines, shelter and food for sick and injured animals.
HSI so far has rescued 13 dogs, one kitten, 20 goats and 8 cows. This apart from the 25 dogs they have arranged shelter for and helped indirectly.
Sally Kannan, education and awareness officer at HSI India, said: “The HSI India team at Tirur Veterinary Hospital in Malappuram is working round the clock to save as many animals as possible. Water level is constantly rising and the situation is still very bad but the team will continue in their efforts to save as many lives as possible.” She added: “We have the contact numbers and photos of the owners and they have our numbers. Once the rains subside, we will reunite the animals with their parents.’’
The group has stock of food and medicines and has also appealed to the general public to donate on www.supporthsi.in or by calling 80757740128.