One NGO called Pawtarian is doing all they can to help rescue these strays, nurse them back to health and rehome them.
Its founder and president Navwinderan Mahenderan also advocates the Trap, Neuter and Release (TNR) method that helps control the stray population.
Navwin has loved dogs since he was a little kid, most likely because his policeman father was always bringing home stray pups he found on the streets.
“My brother and I would be so happy to see those puppies, but usually by the next day they’d be gone because they got adopted,” he told FMT Lifestyle recently.
Then one day, Navwin fell in love with a particular puppy and begged his father to let him keep it. “I named him Boy, and he’s still with me today in good health, thankfully.”
When he was in college, Navwin used to pick up the strays he found in the area and get them adopted, just like his father had done all those years ago.
He even raised funds by selling wristbands bearing the message: ‘Adopt, don’t shop’ to fellow course mates and lecturers. He would then use the profits to continue feeding and spaying the strays he rescued.
Navwin, 30, was also once a co-founder of another group of animal rescuers, but he parted ways with them after some differences in opinions.
Then the pandemic happened. During this time, Navwin lost his job and his relationship with his then-girlfriend ended as well, forcing him to put things into perspective.
“I found myself starting to feed strays again around Klang. I felt like I had no hope at that point in my life and my dogs were what I saw hope in,” he recalled, saying that was what inspired him to found Pawtarian.
The dogs Navwin rescues today are boarded in a number of places in Klang, including in his own home, a friend’s place and a temporary shelter, which was where FMT Lifestyle caught up with him and Pawtarian vice president Tinaga Sri Malayalam recently.
“This place is a project that we hope to launch next year, where we plan to work with a veterinarian for an animal neutering transit centre that offers spaying and neutering services at an affordable rate for pet owners and rescuers,” he said.
Pawtarian is also in the midst of discussions with Majlis Perbandaran Klang (MPK) for a piece of land that can serve as a permanent shelter for their rescues, which are over 40 dogs at the moment.
“We hold adoption drives every Sunday at IOI Mall Puchong as there’s usually a good turnout of animal-loving shoppers.
The NGO also funds its rescue efforts by selling merchandise like T-shirts, lanyards and bags. Tina said they feed strays in the Klang area as well, preparing their food daily at around 4pm.
“The sad fact is people usually adopt puppies under three months old, while adult dogs or those deemed ‘ugly’ are left behind.
“Since we can’t choose a dog’s breed or age when we rescue them, my question is: you say you love dogs, so would you choose to adopt a cute puppy or an older one that’s about to be euthanised?” Navwin asked.
If you would like to adopt a stray adult dog or pup, why not give those rescued by Pawtarian a chance at a better quality of life?
Follow Pawtarian on Instagram and Facebook for more information; or contact them at 018-9179109.