Vaccinate 2000 Street Dogs in India for Rabies

Thanks to your amazing generosity, we exceeded our goal of $3000 ($3010, plus matching) to cover the costs of vaccinating 1541 dogs! 

We missed our goal of 2000, but the rabies vaccinations purchased will be used at our clinic to vaccinate the 120 dogs that come through our clinic each month. There is an estimated 4200 dogs in lower Dharamsala alone. 

For those of our supporters who are new or don't know, rabies is an endemic disease in India. India has the highest number of human deaths, (approx. 20 - 30,000) every year - along with an uncountable number of dogs. The World Health Organization has it on its list of "neglected zoonotic diseases."

Rabies Still Exists in Dharamsala: Rabies is 99% Fatal But 100% Preventable

From January 2021 through September, DAR rescued 21 dogs with suspected rabies. All needed to be euthanized for the safety of the community, staff and the welfare of the animals. The most effective way to eradicate rabies is vaccination for the street dogs and pets, and post bite education for the humans. Our Annual10-Day is another step toward building a safe community for animals and humans. 

Our team began their days at 6am to start vaccinating dogs - every day  - for 10 days! The early start was necessary so we could catch as many dogs as possible before traffic too over the streets. As soon as the sun rose we collaborated with locals who feed and care for street dogs. 

In addition, we handing out fliers educating the locals on what to do if they get bit by an unvaccinated dog. Our Community Enrichment Director, Veronica, even was thanked by local villagers with small gifts, lots of smiles and fruits and vegetables thanking our team for catching, vaccinating, and educating! 

Thank you again for your support. 

If you would like to become a sustaining donor of our work, GlobalGiving is offering a 100% match all new monthly donations (up to $200).  Click HERE to DONATE. 

With Gratitude,