A society that loves, cares for, and values animals without bias embodies true humanity. Improving animal care standards is key to aiding stray animals, a global concern, not just in India. Recent years have witnessed a heartening surge in volunteers in India, reflecting a positive change in people's perception of stray animals. The growing involvement in various initiatives and shelters dedicated to their welfare is heartwarming. More individuals are becoming volunteers at city animal shelters, and donations for these vulnerable creatures have notably increased over time. This rise in manpower and funding equips animal shelters across India to offer enhanced care to their residents.
Here are the best animal shelters in India
1. People for Animals
Located in New Delhi, People for Animals stands as India's most extensive animal welfare initiative. Backed by an extensive network that includes twenty-six hospitals and a multitude of volunteers, this organisation is resolute in offering comprehensive care, shelter, and rescue services to animals in need.
Address: 14 Ashoka Road, Jantar Mantar Road, New Delhi
2. Dharamsala Animal Rescue
Established by Deb Jarrett, this animal rescue entity has a dual purpose. It was primarily set up to assist stray animals in Dharamsala's streets, while simultaneously offering local women a source of livelihood. Since its inception, Dharamsala Animal Rescue has been dedicated to raising public awareness about stray dogs and dispelling fear through education. It has also actively contributed to managing the stray dog population by implementing methods like spaying and neutering.
Address: Slate Godam Road, Village Rakkar, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
3. Charlie’s Animal Care Centre
In Bangalore, this organisation's origin story is heartwarming. Its establishment is attributed to a beloved three-legged dog named Charlie, renowned in Bangalore for his affectionate nature and vital role in canine therapy support. The organisation's primary mission is to ensure that all street-dwelling animals receive prompt medical care, nurturing, and treatment when needed.
Address: Survey No. 124/1 Mittaganahalli Cross, Kogilu, Near Reva College, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka 56006
4. The Bombay Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals
Among the most long-standing animal rescue shelters featured here, this establishment has been dedicated to animals of various types – rescued, stray, and more – for over a century. It remains committed to offering medical aid and general care to all animals and birds in distress. Over time, the organisation has invested in vital facilities, including an ICU unit, a cardiac centre, and a blood bank, to provide enhanced assistance to the animals.
Address: Dr S S Rao Road, Beside Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, Parel, Opposite Md College, Mumbai, Maharashtra
5. Blue Cross
Blue Cross in Hyderabad was established by the renowned South Indian actors Nagarjuna and Amala Akkineni. Endorsed by the Animal Welfare Board, this shelter is dedicated to offering initial aid to stray dogs and educating the public about pets, their behaviours, and proper care practices. Moreover, the shelter conducts volunteer training to specialise in animal birth control administration. Through these initiatives and more, Blue Cross tirelessly strives to alleviate the plight of animals, particularly those on the streets.
Address: 403/9, Road 35, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana
6. Visakha Society For The Protection And Care For Animals
Dedicated to combating the global trafficking of prohibited animals like sea turtles, this shelter also offers extensive care and medical assistance to animals in need. Additionally, it provides refuge for animals abandoned due to old age or high upkeep expenses. With a strong commitment to reducing street-dwelling animals, the shelter endeavours to provide a safe haven for as many animals as possible.
Address: 26-15-200, Main Road, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
7. The Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre
The Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre stands as India's most extensive animal care and rescue shelter. As the country's oldest of its kind, it operates under the guidance of renowned animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi. Named after her husband, the centre is dedicated to rescuing animals in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. Functioning as an animal treatment centre, it offers an array of medical services, including dental care, ICUs, and operating rooms, to ensure animals receive top-tier care.
Address: Near Shivaji College & Delhi Home Guards Head Office, Raja Garden New Delhi
Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication only.