Unbreakable Bonds

Inspiring Tales of Resilience and Survival

Photo by wildartbysam

The Remarkable Journey of Sheru, Kimu, and Nokmu

In remote and challenging areas, dogs and cats endure harsh weather, difficult conditions, food and water shortages, and a lack of shelter.

During a recent expedition to Nepal and various regions in India, including West Bengal, the Northeast, Ladakh, Himachal, and Uttarakhand, I encountered numerous neglected pets, dogs, and cats struggling to survive under harsh circumstances.

Observing these animals tethered tightly on short chains, unable to move or sit comfortably, was distressing. Furthermore, vegetarian families, primarily providing dogs with rice, oats, or cooked flour, failed to meet the animals’ dietary needs for sufficient protein intake, considering their requirement for meat-based sustenance. It is worth mentioning that all canines possess teeth designed for hunting, biting, tearing meat, and breaking bones.

Upon learning about these animals’ plight, my compassionate wife shared my concerns. She proposed that instead of giving money to the owners, who often misappropriate funds, I should purchase food with appropriate nutrition for the animals. With the assistance of my team partner, Pritam, and driver, Limbu, we procured meat from the valley market and transported it to the higher altitudes where these animals reside.

Photo by wildartbysam

Photo by wildartbysam

Limited Food Options Coping

Occasionally, I had to forgo breakfast or lunch during the tour. In such situations, eating outside was the only viable option. However, finding food establishments in mountainous regions proved challenging and scarce. Whenever a shop was discovered, I made it a point to purchase oat biscuits or unsweetened and unflavored biscuits for the dogs. On one occasion, when lunchtime had already passed, I requested my guide companion, Peter, to procure biscuits for me. I then offered these biscuits to the dogs as they scoured the mountainous areas for sustenance, where hotels, shops, and other sources of food were absent.

Photo by wildartbysam

The Dark Side of Social Media Pet Culture

It is disheartening to witness individuals keeping pets solely for social media attention and flaunting their wealth. They often acquire expensive dogs and cats, sometimes multiples, solely for their aesthetic appeal while neglecting their well-being.

Neglected Dogs in Urban Areas: A Heartbreaking Reality

Photo by wildartbysam

I once encountered a malnourished, ailing dog with no food and exposed bones. Despite the dog’s weak tail’s obvious plea for food, its owners only gave it white rice and water in a tiny steel bowl without any meat. In urban, cold, and snowy regions, it is not uncommon to encounter dogs afflicted with skin diseases, mites, and cold-related illnesses. Approaching dogs in such conditions can be awkward, especially if they are on private property or the owner is unapproachable. Many of us feel uneasy or prefer not to intervene, yet we observe with sorrowful eyes from a distance. However…

One statement stands out: We do not possess animals, birds, or other creatures.

They possess their rights, way of life, survival, and hunting instincts. Our prerogative is not to keep them confined within our homes or cages for our interests or amusement. Human beings have fellow humans as companions. Rescuing animals serves a different purpose, and if one chooses to keep them, it should be done responsibly. Otherwise, I believe it is a resounding ‘NO’. What sort of companionship can be forged without the ability to communicate through speech, language, or expression?

Photo by wildartbysam

I have witnessed several instances where large, undernourished dogs were tethered near public toilets. These unfortunate animals suffered from skin ailments and the harsh weather. Unfortunately, approaching them is often uncomfortable due to private property or the presence of their owners. Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge that we do not hold the right to confine animals in cages or houses for our own entertainment. Every living being possesses innate instincts and survival techniques, and it is our duty to honour and respect them.

Now comes the crucial aspect.

How pets are jeopardizing nature and the habitats of other animals

Photo by wildartbysam

Greed and monetary gain drive pet breeding. Some individuals breed and sell pets solely for profit, often losing sight of their emotions and the value of life in the process. When pets are no longer capable of reproducing, they are frequently abandoned, left to fend for themselves on the streets or even deep within the wilderness. This lack of empathy and disregard for living creatures constitutes a saddening reality that demands attention.

Take a moment to contemplate. How heart-wrenching! That pet has been with you since birth, making you their entire world, trusting you, and never betraying you. And yet, one day, you betrayed them.

Photo by wildartbysam

It is crucial to acknowledge the detrimental impact that keeping pets can have on the environment and the habitats of other animals. In this regard, wild animals such as leopards and tigers could threaten pets. If a pet carries diseases, the predator may contract these illnesses and become ill.

My Plea Against Keeping Pets and Animal Abuse

I earnestly implore everyone to refrain from keeping pets and to actively speak out against animal abuse and mistreatment. Our collective responsibility is to ensure the well-being of innocent animals and protect their rights.

If you witness any instances of animal abuse or mistreatment, I urge you to do your best to intervene and provide assistance. If you cannot directly intervene, please consider raising awareness by posting about the issue on social media and seeking help from relevant authorities. By doing so, we can inform others about the problem and encourage them to join our cause.

Conclusion

Photo by wildartbysam

Let us remember that animals have their own lives and rights, and it is our duty to safeguard and defend them. Together, we can make a difference and be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.

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