This Couple In Jharkhand Has Created A Safe Haven For Countless Sick, Abandoned & Paralyzed Dogs

Twenty-five years ago, when Somen and Sonali Mazumdar started feeding stray dogs, little did they know that one day, they would be the reason hundreds of dogs find a safe, loving and caring home. However, their journey was not without challenges and sacrifices - the biggest being their own family. Somen recalls a time when his uncle was bitten by a dog, which caused great fear among his family. As a result, their relatives rarely visit and are not supportive of their work.

“They’ve never been happy about the work we do. But it doesn’t bother us anymore. Sonali’s love for animals is what inspired me to join her on this mission, and there’s been no looking back. She’s the reason we have an even bigger family now - all the loving dogs at our shelter. From the beginning it’s just been the two of us, and even today, it’s just us against the world.” - Somen Mazumdar, Co-founder, Animal Welfare Trust

Their son was deeply influenced by his parents' unwavering dedication and now helps them in their efforts too. Even though they face many obstacles, this couple is committed to giving a voice and a home to these vulnerable animals, treating them with the same love and care as they would their own family.

Their Animal Rescue Journey Began With A Paralyzed Puppy That Changed Their Lives

In 2017, near Ranchi in Jharkhand, Somen and Sonali founded the Animal Welfare Trust. However, their journey towards animal rescue did not begin right away. It all started with one puppy that transformed their lives.

“Initially, we provided dog training and boarding facilities for animals. We would use the profits earned from these services to feed stray dogs. One day, we came across a severely wounded puppy that had been run over by a vehicle. The puppy was paralyzed and needed immediate attention. We took the puppy in, provided him with the required care and nursed him back to health. Since then, we’ve rescued over 500 animals.”

Somen and Sonali firmly believe that every animal deserves to live in peace and dignity. They provide shelter to sick, abandoned, old and injured dogs. Currently, they take care of 136 dogs, out of which 50 are physically challenged due to accidents or abuse. Their mission is to prevent animal cruelty, promote animal welfare and foster the human-animal relationship. At the sanctuary, all the animals receive medical treatment, healthy meals and a loving home.

“We’ve seen animals come to us in some of the most terrible conditions. The worst are the ones who are victims of animal cruelty. Once we rescued a labrador who had acid burns on her, and she crying out in pain. We knew we had to do everything in our power to ease her pain, and months after medical care, she started to recover.”

Somen and Sonali never refuse any rescue requests, even though they struggle to look after all the dogs at the shelter. They continue to receive one or two rescue calls every day. However, it is not easy.

Their Biggest Challenge Is Getting Food For Their Dogs

Sonali and Somen have been tirelessly dedicated to rescuing dogs in need. They've faced numerous obstacles together, but now, they truly need your support. Their journey has grown increasingly difficult, and they can't continue without a helping hand.

"Our biggest challenge right now is providing food for these precious dogs. Every month, we find ourselves borrowing money just to ensure they're fed. We don't even have regular donors. We need help to get dog food, essential medicines, and hygiene products. With your help, we can ensure the overall well-being of these innocent dogs."