IDA India Celebrates 20 Years of Aiding Street Dogs and Cats

One of our special direct-rescue sanctuaries in India is this year celebrating an incredible 20 years of helping the thousands of street-living cats and dogs in desperate need in busy Mumbai.

In Defense of Animals - India is celebrating twice over, since it is also the 10th anniversary of the opening of our second rescue center, based in the twin city of Navi Mumbai. We recently held a twin celebration attended by volunteers, donors and well-wishers, not forgetting all the staff from IDA India’s three centers and their families.

Former IDA India President, Ms. Fizzah Shah, shared her experiences of the challenging 20 year journey that had seen IDA India grow from operating out of makeshift camps to having three centers that cover over 360 square miles of territory and help tens of thousands of animals every year.

Dr. Naina Athale talked about her struggle with Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation to wrestle out the contract for dog spay/neuter program for IDA India, from the jaws of the party who used to be in charge of destroying the stray dogs in the megacity.

Senior surgeon Dr. Ghanwat described his experiences of performing a staggering 100,000 surgeries to date, often working on two patients using his unique twin table theater! While one surgery is going on, the animal on the next table is prepared, and Dr. Ghanwat moves to and fro finishing surgeries in quick time, that too with precision. Sometimes the staff is almost unable to keep up with his pace.

Incredible generosity was shown by our supporters on this special occasion, who bestowed gifts to IDA India that will help us reach even more animals with our work. Ms. Fizzah Shah donated a kennel one in memory of her late husband Mr. Navnitbhai Shah. Another kennel was donated by Ms. Kanan and Mr. Hemang Shah, in memory of their canine companion, Milo. Two ambulances were donated as well; one by by Sarita Raturi for Mumbai Centre, and another was donated by the Choksi Charity Foundation for Navi Mumbai Centre. These ambulances will provide invaluable support to animals in need.

In India, it is traditional to perform a puja to bless new items and keep them from harm. The same was done with these new ambulances and kennels, and they were inaugurated by our esteemed friends with offerings and garlands of marigold, and a ribbon cutting-ceremony.

Trophies and gifts were awarded to all staff who have given more than 10 years of service to IDA India, by our long time supporter Ms. Varsha Taurani.

Memories were shared over tantalizing vegan snacks, and there was laughter all round, especially with our staff’s children who had a rollicking great time! Of course, the excited animals at the center were a central part of this important celebration, with the dogs joining in with loud barking!

We hope for many more years of serving India’s needy dogs and cats.