Organised by doctor brothers Nanthakumar Krishnan and Sai Hemanand from the Johor-based clinic, the drive is supported by NGOs Noah’s Ark Ipoh and Persatuan Kebajikan dan Suara Haiwan Jalanan Manjung.
Event representative Puvanes Narayanasamy told FMT that some 40 puppies and 20 kittens, including 12 pups from the latter organisation, are expected to be rehomed.
“Our volunteers have been moved by the plight of strays in Malaysia, and Ipoh, especially, has very poor stray management,” she said.
As such, homeless animals from nearby housing areas are being left to fend for themselves at the dumpsite in Papan without food, water or shelter. Sadly, many of them end up being run over on the Ipoh-Lumut highway.
The strays at the dumpsite were first spotted in 2020 by Keshturi Sivam, founder and president of PapanSouls, an NGO and shelter, which led to members of the Sai community volunteering to feed and care for the animals there and around the city. The volunteers have thus far collaborated with PapanSouls on two adoption drives.
Puvanes further explained that animal-loving members of the Sai community support the concept of Trap, Rescue, Neuter and Manage, and are exploring avenues for this to be carried out. Through this weekend’s drive, she hopes they can be connected with more independent rescuers and NGOs.
Surely, with great companionship and undying loyalty from these furry souls comes great responsibility. What questions should potential pet owners ask themselves before adopting?
Drawn by their cuteness, many people decide to take in a pet but eventually realise they cannot bear the personal and/or financial responsibility. As such, Puvanes said, potential owners need to be aware that caring for a pet is a long-term commitment of about 15 years.
Also, financial stability is a must: aside from a monthly budget of RM300 per dog and RM150 per cat – or even more – potential pet owners should set aside funds for medical emergencies.
She added that prospective adopters should neuter, vaccinate and deworm their furbabies, and make sure they are well-fed and looked after.
Finally, she advocates adopting a homeless animal instead of buying a purebred from pet shops. “All of them have the same four legs, a tail, and the purest unconditional love,” she said.
Poliklinik & Surgeri Sai’s pet adoption drive will be held on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm. For more information, contact Puvanes at 017-5666206, Ajit at 012-2176553, or Navin at 010-2422560.
Location:
Lotus Bercham (formerly Tesco),
Open car park, ground floor,
2, Laluan Tasek Timur 6,
Taman Tasek Indra, Ipoh