Mumbai: As the monsoon unleashes its fury across the city, stray dogs and other community animals are among the most vulnerable — left to navigate flooded streets, dwindling food sources, and shelterless nights. In an exclusive conversation with PgGinger, Dr. Mini Aravindan, Senior Director of Veterinary Affairs at PETA India, issued a powerful and urgent appeal to residents: “This is the time for compassion in action.”
“The Rain Doesn’t Spare the Voiceless”
Speaking to The Times of India, Dr. Aravindan painted a stark picture of what stray animals face each monsoon. “Heavy rains leave animals cold, hungry, and often injured. What we take as a seasonal inconvenience becomes a daily fight for survival for them,” she says.
But help can come from the most ordinary places.
“Society members and homeowners can make a real difference. Simply allowing a dog to take shelter under a staircase or roof overhang can mean the world,” Dr. Aravindan explains. “It’s about being kind, not turning away.”
Car Hoods: Hidden Dangers and Silent Traps
Dr. Aravindan also highlighted a little-known but critical safety habit every car owner should adopt during the monsoon.
“Cats, in particular, crawl into warm car engines to escape the cold. Before starting your car, always knock on the hood and check under your vehicle. A small act of caution can prevent a terrible accident.”
Low-Cost, Lifesaving Solutions Anyone Can Set Up
For those looking to actively help, Dr. Aravindan offers practical shelter solutions that require minimal effort or expense.
“You don’t need fancy equipment. Use an old tarpaulin sheet for a rain cover, place bricks underneath to keep it elevated, and line the area with old clothes for warmth. That’s enough to give an animal a dry and safe space during a downpour.”
She further advises keeping clean water bowls accessible in public or building spaces. “Rainwater runoff is often mixed with oil and sewage. Ensuring access to clean water is just as important as food or shelter.”
Monsoon Compassion Must Be Collective
When asked about the role of community action, Dr. Aravindan was clear: “Compassion works best when it’s collective. Talk to your neighbours. Encourage your housing society to support community animals during the monsoon.”
She directs concerned citizens to PETA India’s resource page on helping animals in distress: https://www.petaindia.com/blog/helpinganimalsindistress
PETA India’s Emergency Help is Just a Call Away
Behind the scenes, PETA India’s emergency response team works 24/7, responding to calls, coordinating rescues, and guiding people on how to act in animal emergencies — even in areas without PETA’s physical presence.
“If you see an animal in urgent need or in danger, don’t wait. Stay with the animal and call us immediately,” Dr. Aravindan urged. “Our emergency number — (0) 98201 22602 — should be saved in every compassionate citizen’s phone.”
For general queries or non-emergency assistance, she advises writing to Info@petaindia.org.
As the rain lashes city streets, Dr. Aravindan leaves us with a reminder that echoes far beyond this season: “Stray animals don’t have voices. But they have us. And every act of kindness matters.”
