Mini Vasudevan Has Dedicated Her Life To The Strays, Support Her Cause

Minu Vasudevan Has Dedicated Her Lives To The Strays, Support Her Cause

Mini Vasudevan, a resident of Coimbatore, likes to call herself a ‘dog companion’. Since 2006, Vasudevan has been the Managing Trustee of Humane Animal Society (HAS), a non-profit organization based out of Coimbatore that addresses the welfare of stray animals through animal birth control and anti-rabies drives, and by rescuing animals that are in urgent need of treatment. The rescued animals are treated and rehabilitated at their rescue centre before being released back to their community. The HAS Sanctuary becomes the new home of the ones for whom release wouldn't be safe.  

“I came back from the USA in 2004 and alongside my regular work as an engineer, I started volunteering at a compound where the Coimbatore Municipal Corporation (CMC) was carrying out the animal birth control programme. But the conditions of the dogs broke my heart. They were chained, covered in their own faeces and urine. I wanted to do something for them.”  - Mini Vasudevan,HAS. 

Soon, she got the paperwork done and started a shelter home on the land provided by the corporation. 

A place that gives only love and affection to animals 

Vasudevan’s centre is not just to alleviate the sufferings of animals, but also to introduce the concept of companionship and respect through awareness.  

“We tried to educate people about animals and how they can treat them. It was the early 2000s and the concept of adopting animals especially Indian breeds was something people didn’t know. We hired vets who would provide consultations and treatments at low costs. This made a difference, as over time, rescue and adoption related calls increased. A few years later, we opened a sanctuary that now houses 70 animals.” 

Vasudevan beams with joy as she talks about how people have become more open to adopting Indian breeds. They are aware of unethical breeding practices and raise their voices against them. Her active social media page that curates the stories of the animals has gotten loving homes for these fur babies.  

Support her efforts and bring happiness to many more animals in need  

Vasudevan, who was awarded the Nari Shakti Award in 2019 for her outstanding contributions towards animal welfare, doesn’t believe in the concept of shelters. She thinks shelter homes are temporary places for injured or sick animals who otherwise should roam around freely.   

“From my childhood, I have always loved animals and wanted to do something for them. Now that I have left my job and have dedicated my life to this, I am very happy. I want to give these animals a chance to live a happy life. Also, I want the humans to understand that a little kindness goes a long way - these animals are sentient beings, show them some love and they can fill your life with happiness.”   

This is Minu Vasudevan’s appeal to all of you to come forward and donate food, medicines and construction materials to give these voiceless souls a safe place to recuperate and warm meals. Every donation will make a difference. 

Note: All the donations towards this campaign are eligible for Indian Tax Exemption.