On the occasion of International Dog Day 2023, a day that celebrates the indomitable bond between humans and their loyal canine companions, our focus shifts to those who have long existed on the fringes – the resilient and often overlooked stray dogs. In the spirit of this global celebration, we direct our attention to Sarvoham Animal Foundation, a charitable organization that rescues, treats, rehabilitates, and rehome dogs from the streets of Bengaluru. This day is more than just festivities; it's a call to action, a reminder of our shared responsibility towards all dogs, including those who have not yet found a loving haven. It urges us to champion the cause of stray dogs, to amplify their voices. This International Dog Day, we bring to you an insightful interview with Haris Ali, Founder, Sarvoham Animal Foundation, which gives us a glimpse of the world of compassionate individuals who have made it their mission to change these lives for the better.
Scroll down to read the full interview.
Q. When and by whom was Sarvoham Animal Foundation established, and what was the driving force behind its genesis?
A. Sarvoham Animal Foundation was established in April 2017 by Haris Ali and MadusmithaSahu. The driving force behind its genesis was the acute lack of animal shelters equipped to provide assistance to sick and injured street dogs in Bangalore. Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue and provide proper care for vulnerable animals, Haris Ali and MadusmithaSahu came together to establish Sarvoham Animal Foundation. Their shared compassion for animals and their dedication to improving the lives of street dogs led to the creation of this organization, which has since been working tirelessly to provide medical care, shelter, and a better future for these animals in need.
Q. Can you describe the primary mission and activities of Sarvoham Animal Foundation as a charitable organization?
A. Our primary mission is focused on providing comprehensive care for animals in need. The foundation is dedicated to three core pillars: medical aid, rehabilitation, and rehoming.
When an animal is brought to the shelter, the foundation's first priority is to provide essential medical aid. This includes vaccinations to prevent diseases and sterilization procedures to control the animal population. Once the animals have undergone the necessary medical treatments, they are carefully rehabilitated under the foundation's care.
An integral part of the foundation's work is to rehabilitate animals back to health and well-being. For animals that were injured, sick, or otherwise compromised, the foundation's dedicated team of caregivers provides the necessary treatments, therapies, and attention to ensure a successful recovery. This rehabilitation process not only improves the animals' physical health but also contributes to their mental and emotional well-being.
The Sarvoham Animal Foundation also emphasizes rehoming as a key aspect of its mission. Animals that have regained their health and strength are diligently prepared for adoption into loving homes. The foundation ensures that potential adopters undergo a thorough screening process to match the animals with suitable and caring families. By finding responsible and compassionate forever homes, the foundation aims to provide a better life for the animals and contribute positively to the community.
Additionally, the foundation is dedicated to preserving the quality of life for certain animals that may have sustained permanent injuries, such as paralysis or handicaps. These animals, unable to return to their natural territories, are provided with a loving and permanent home within the shelter, where they receive ongoing care, attention, and a comfortable environment tailored to their needs.
Q. How does the name "Sarvoham" reflect the organization's goals and values, and how does this philosophy of harmonious coexistence influence their approach to animal welfare?
The name "Sarvoham" carries significant symbolism that aligns with the goals and values of the organization, reflecting a philosophy of harmonious coexistence and compassion towards all living beings. "Sarvoham" is a Sanskrit term that translates to "I am all" or "I am everything." This name encapsulates the organization's commitment to recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms and its dedication to the well-being of not only the animals we serve but also the broader ecosystem they inhabit.
The philosophy of harmonious coexistence, as embodied by the name "Sarvoham," deeply influences the organization's approach to animal welfare. This philosophy emphasizes the notion that every being, regardless of its form or species, holds inherent value and deserves respect, care, and protection. The organization's actions are guided by this philosophy, which resonates throughout its various endeavours.
The approach to animal welfare rooted in harmonious coexistence encourages the organization to not only provide immediate medical attention and rehabilitation to animals in distress but also to take a holistic view of their well-being. This means considering the animals' physical health, emotional needs, and their place within the larger ecosystem. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of all life, the organization's efforts extend beyond the immediate needs of individual animals to encompass a broader vision of creating a sustainable and compassionate environment.
Furthermore, this philosophy shapes how Sarvoham Animal Foundation engages with the community. It promotes education and awareness initiatives to foster empathy and understanding among people, encouraging responsible and ethical interactions with animals. By emphasizing harmonious coexistence, the organization strives to create a society where humans and animals coexist in a way that is respectful, mutually beneficial, and mindful of the impact on the environment.
Q. How does Sarvoham contribute to the well-being of street dogs in Bengaluru?
A. Sarvoham Animal Foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of street dogs in Bengaluru through a multifaceted approach that addresses their medical needs, rehabilitation, and overall quality of life. The organization's contributions can be outlined as follows:
1. Medical Care and Treatment: Sarvoham provides essential medical aid to street dogs, offering vaccinations to prevent diseases and sterilization procedures to manage the local animal population. Sick and injured street dogs are given prompt medical attention, including surgeries, medications, and treatments necessary for their recovery. By addressing their health issues, the organization helps improve their physical well-being and overall quality of life.
2. Rehabilitation: Street dogs that have undergone medical treatment receive comprehensive rehabilitation under the care of Sarvoham's dedicated team. Rehabilitation includes physical therapy, socialization, and training to help the animals regain their strength, confidence, and ability to interact positively with humans and other animals.
3. Rehoming: Sarvoham diligently works towards finding suitable and loving homes for rehabilitated street dogs. Through a thorough screening process, the organization matches these dogs with responsible adopters who can provide safe and caring environments. This not only improves the dogs' well-being but also contributes to reducing the street dog population and fostering responsible pet ownership.
4. Permanent Care: For street dogs that have sustained permanent injuries or disabilities, Sarvoham offers a lifelong home within their shelter. These dogs receive specialized care tailored to their needs, ensuring they have a comfortable and nurturing environment to thrive in despite their limitations.
5. Community Engagement and Awareness: The organization actively engages with the local community to raise awareness about street dog welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of harmonious coexistence. Through educational initiatives, workshops, and outreach programs, Sarvoham promotes empathy and understanding towards street dogs, encouraging people to treat them with kindness and respect.
6. Advocacy and Impact: Sarvoham's efforts contribute to larger advocacy efforts aimed at improving animal welfare policies and practices in Bengaluru. By demonstrating the positive impact of our work and advocating for the humane treatment of street dogs, the organization influences a more compassionate approach to animal care within the community and beyond.
In essence, Sarvoham Animal Foundation's comprehensive approach addresses the immediate needs of street dogs in terms of medical care and rehabilitation while also striving to create a lasting impact by fostering responsible adoption and promoting a culture of empathy and respect towards these animals. Through our dedicated efforts, Sarvoham contributes significantly to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of street dogs in Bengaluru.
Q. Can you elaborate on Sarvoham's growth over the past 6 years from a small rescue mission to a charitable animal welfare organization? What kind of modern facilities and services does Sarvoham provide for the animals under their care, including surgical and diagnostic equipment and emergency services?
A. Over the past six years, Sarvoham Animal Foundation has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a small rescue mission into a robust and impactful charitable animal welfare organization. The growth can be highlighted in several key areas:
1. Team Expansion: Since its inception as a small rescue mission, Sarvoham has expanded its team significantly. What began with just two individuals, Haris Ali and MadusmithaSahu, has now grown to include over 20 dedicated and passionate members. This expansion of the team has enabled the organization to broaden its scope of operations and offer a more comprehensive range of services.
2. Shelter Capacity: One of the most notable aspects of Sarvoham's growth is the substantial increase in shelter space. From initially accommodating around 20 dogs, the shelter can now house over 200 dogs in need. This expansion allows us to provide care and shelter to a larger number of animals, thereby making a more profound impact on the street dog population in Bengaluru.
3. Dedicated Ambulance: Sarvoham's commitment to providing prompt medical attention has been reinforced by the acquisition of a dedicated ambulance. This crucial addition enables the organization to respond quickly to emergencies and transport sick or injured animals to the shelter or medical facilities for treatment.
4. Full-Time Medical Surgeon and Infrastructure: To enhance the quality of medical care provided, Sarvoham has recruited a full-time medical surgeon. This professional, combined with the necessary medical infrastructure, including equipment such as CBC (Complete Blood Count), X-ray machines, and Biochemistry analyzers, enables the organization to perform a wide range of medical procedures and diagnostics on-site.
5. Surgical Capabilities: Sarvoham's growth is highlighted by its ability to perform various surgical procedures in-house. Equipped with the necessary medical tools and skilled personnel, we can now conduct surgeries, ranging from routine sterilizations to more complex operations, thus ensuring comprehensive care for the animals in our care.
6. Community Engagement: As part of its growth, Sarvoham has also increased its community engagement efforts. The organization's presence in the community, along with educational initiatives and awareness programs, has helped foster a culture of compassion and understanding towards street dogs and animal welfare in general.
Sarvoham Animal Foundation's journey from a small rescue mission to a charitable animal welfare organization showcases not only its commitment but also its impressive growth in various aspects. The expansion of its team, shelter capacity, medical capabilities, and community engagement initiatives underscores the organization's dedication to improving the lives of street dogs in Bengaluru. Sarvoham's growth exemplifies its determination to create a positive and lasting impact on animal welfare and the broader community.
Q. How does Sarvoham intend to increase its capacity to accommodate the rising demand for their services, and what challenges are they facing in achieving this goal?
A. Sarvoham Animal Foundation is actively working to increase its capacity to meet the rising demand for its services, particularly as the organization gains recognition and trust within the community. Our strategies for expanding capacity and the challenges we face in achieving this goal can be outlined as follows:
Strategies for Increasing Capacity:
1. Infrastructure Expansion: To accommodate more animals, Sarvoham aims to expand its shelter facilities. This might involve purchasing 10-acre land and constructing kennels to provide comfortable and safe accommodations for a larger number of dogs.
2. Team Strengthening: The organization plans to further expand its team of caregivers, veterinarians, and support staff. By recruiting skilled professionals, Sarvoham can provide more comprehensive care and attention to the growing number of animals under our care.
3. Technology and Equipment: Investing in modern technologies and medical equipment is a key strategy. Advanced diagnostic tools, surgical equipment, and medical facilities enable us to provide a wider range of medical treatments and surgeries efficiently.
4. Volunteer Engagement: Engaging more volunteers from the community can help Sarvoham manage day-to-day operations and provide additional care to the animals. Volunteers can assist in tasks like cleaning, feeding, socialization, and administrative work.
5. Funding and Partnerships: Securing consistent funding through donations, grants, and partnerships is essential for expanding capacity. Collaborating with local businesses, animal lovers, and other organizations can help raise the necessary resources.
Challenges:
1. Financial Resources: Expanding capacity requires significant financial investments in infrastructure, equipment, and personnel. Raising funds consistently can be challenging, especially for a nonprofit organization.
2. Space Limitations: Finding suitable space for shelter expansion within the constraints of urban environments can be difficult. Ensuring that the additional facilities meet regulatory and animal welfare standards is also crucial.
3. Skilled Personnel: Recruiting and retaining skilled veterinarians, medical staff, and caregivers can be a challenge. Qualified professionals might be limited, and attracting them to work for a nonprofit can be competitive.
4. Operational Costs: As capacity increases, operational costs rise as well. Costs related to medical supplies, food, utilities, and maintenance must be managed effectively to ensure sustainable growth.
5. Community Support: While Sarvoham has been successful in garnering community support, maintaining and expanding this support is essential for long-term growth. Building trust and maintaining transparency are crucial to sustaining community engagement.
Despite these challenges, Sarvoham's commitment to animal welfare and its track record of growth and success serve as strong foundations for overcoming obstacles. By strategizing effectively, building strong partnerships, and harnessing community support, the organization can continue to expand its capacity and positively impact the lives of even more animals in need.
Q. How can individuals, the general public, and corporates provide the urgent support needed for Sarvoham's cause and their ongoing operations, which rely on donations and contributions from these sources?
A. Individuals, the general public, and corporates can play a pivotal role in providing the urgent support needed to sustain Sarvoham's cause and ongoing operations, which heavily rely on donations and contributions from these sources. Here's how each group can contribute:
Individuals:
1. Donate Regularly: Individuals can commit to making regular donations, even if they are small. Consistent contributions help the organization plan its operations more effectively.
2. One-Time Donations: Making one-time donations during special campaigns or in response to specific needs can provide immediate financial support.
3. Sponsorship: Consider sponsoring the care of a specific animal, covering its medical expenses, food, and shelter. This personalized approach can create a meaningful connection between donors and the organization's beneficiaries.
4. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills as a volunteer. Volunteers can assist in various activities, from cleaning and feeding to organizing events and fundraisers.
5. Spread Awareness: Use social media and word-of-mouth to raise awareness about Sarvoham's mission. Sharing success stories, challenges, and the impact of donations can inspire others to contribute.
General Public:
1. Educate Others: Help educate your friends, family, and acquaintances about the importance of animal welfare and the work done by Sarvoham. Encourage them to get involved or contribute.
2. In-Kind Donations: Donate essential supplies such as food, blankets, medical supplies, and toys for the animals. These contributions can reduce operational costs.
Corporates:
1. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives: Corporates can allocate a portion of their CSR budget to support animal welfare organizations like Sarvoham. This can include monetary donations, in-kind contributions, or employee volunteer programs.
2. Partnerships: Establish partnerships where a percentage of sales or profits from a product or service is donated to the organization. Such collaborations can benefit both the business and the cause.
3. Sponsorship: Corporates can sponsor specific projects or events organized by Sarvoham. This can provide visibility to their brand while supporting a noble cause.
4. Employee Engagement: Encourage employees to volunteer or participate in fundraising activities for Sarvoham. This can foster team bonding and a sense of social responsibility.
5. Cause Marketing: Incorporate Sarvoham's cause into marketing campaigns, demonstrating the corporation's commitment to social responsibility.
Ultimately, support from individuals, the general public, and corporates is essential for Sarvoham's continued success. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, spreading awareness, or providing resources, each contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant impact on the organization's ability to improve the lives of street dogs and promote animal welfare.
Q. What are the potential future directions and expansion possibilities for Sarvoham Animal Foundation, considering its substantial growth in the past 6 years and its commitment to mitigating animal suffering and promoting a more compassionate approach to animal welfare?
A. Given Sarvoham Animal Foundation's substantial growth in the past six years and its strong commitment to mitigating animal suffering and promoting compassionate animal welfare, there are several potential future directions and expansion possibilities that we could consider:
1. Regional Outreach: With its proven track record, Sarvoham could expand its reach beyond Bengaluru to other cities or regions in need of effective animal welfare solutions. Establishing satellite branches or collaborating with local organizations could help extend their impact to a wider geographic area.
2. Educational Programs:Sarvoham can further enhance its educational initiatives by partnering with schools, colleges, and community centres. Developing comprehensive educational programs on animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and coexistence with animals can help create a more informed and compassionate society.
3. Advocacy and Policy Change: Building on its success, Sarvoham could channel its influence towards advocating for stronger animal welfare policies and regulations at the local and regional levels. By actively participating in policy discussions, the organization can help shape a more humane legal framework for animal protection.
4. Rescue and Rehabilitation Center: Expanding into a larger rescue and rehabilitation centre with more advanced medical facilities could enable Sarvoham to cater to a larger number of animals with more complex medical needs. This could also include specialized care for specific species or conditions.
5. Mobile Clinics: Introducing mobile veterinary clinics can help Sarvoham reach remote areas with limited access to animal care services. These clinics can provide basic medical care, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering services to underserved communities.
6. Research and Collaboration: Collaborating with academic institutions and researchers can lead to valuable insights into animal behaviour, health, and welfare. These insights can inform the development of innovative and effective interventions.
7. International Collaboration: Establishing connections with animal welfare organizations in other countries can facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and the implementation of best practices from around the world.
8. Awareness Campaigns: Sarvoham can continue to raise awareness about animal welfare issues through creative and impactful campaigns. These campaigns can engage a wider audience and mobilize support for their cause.
9. Holistic Animal Welfare: Expanding beyond dogs to include other animals like cats, birds, and livestock can broaden Sarvoham's impact and cater to a more diverse range of animals in need.
10. Sustainable Funding Models: Developing sustainable funding models, such as membership programs, recurring donation campaigns, and endowment funds, can help ensure consistent financial support for the organization's long-term operations.
