Rescue and Managing Street Animals in Nepal

Over the last 3 months, monsoon rains have battered the local animals and seen a rise in skin infections.

Monsoon season is when rain lashes the countryside in Nepal. Even though rainfall was lower than normal this year, that didn't stop the increased need of animals, especially street dwelling community dogs, from requiring support from our partner Himalayan Animal Rescue Trust (HART). 

HART have responded to and received a larger than normal amount of call outs from concerned community about dogs with mange (a serious skin infection). This tends to flare up in hot, damp, humid conditions, typically the climate in monsoon. Limited shelter and lack of dry sleeping spots for dogs means that these conditions worsen without treatment and can take a long time to heal. HART is able to treat affected dogs on the street in community with injections, but also has a limited supply of oral medication which can be administered by community members. A total of 50 dogs have been rescued in Pokhara and Bharatpur during this period and treated for a number of differing ailments.  

Throughout the quarter, more than 800 children across 4 school have been involved in HART's community education and awareness program, of which 3 GVI volunteers have assisted to facilitate. They engage in a facilitated session with the focus on the work of HART, responsible pet ownership and awareness of issues facing animals. 

HART's community education officer was also involved in 3 separate private sessions with our Under 18 groups and other school group. The students were able to hear about the work that HART does in eradicating rabies across regions of Nepal, as well as spreading awareness about the ethical treatment and response to animals. These are important seminars as it broadens the students awareness of the broad range of issues facing Nepali communities. 

HART is in the process of relocating to a new site to run their operations out of. It is a large space with lots of land, but requires a significant amount of setting up. It is an exciting time for HART as they shift into gear and continue to grow the reach of the organisation.

As the year continues we are reminded of the generosity of so many people who chose to work alongside us. By choosing to support our work, you not only provide financial assistance to the projects, but you bolster the hope and belief amongst the community that they deserve to be supported and given opportunities. It inspires staff to continue striving for better and reminds all of us of the power of generosity. We look forward to welcoming new and existing funders into our journey for the rest of the year.