3 Simple Ways You Can Help Bhopal's Stray Dogs Survive the Summer

Bhopal's summer temperatures can be brutal for our community dogs. As an NGO, Rescue Routes sees the direct impact of dehydration and heatstroke on strays every single day. While we work tirelessly on rescues, you hold the power to prevent these emergencies right from your neighbourhood.

1. Create "Hydration Stations"

The simplest way to save a life is to ensure access to clean water. Place a wide, heavy-bottomed container—a clay bowl is best as it stays cool—outside your home, shop, or office. Please make it a part of your daily routine to refill this water at least twice a day. A small bowl of water can keep an entire pack of dogs hydrated through the hottest hours.

2. Recognize the Signs of Heatstroke

Knowledge saves lives. If you see a dog that is excessively panting, drooling thick saliva, looking lethargic, or having trouble standing, they may be suffering from heatstroke. Immediately move them to a shaded area and splash room-temperature water on their paws. Do not pour ice-cold water on them, as this can cause shock. Reach out to Rescue Routes for immediate guidance.

3. Support Your Local Community Feeders

The feeders in your area are the unsung heroes of Bhopal. They know every dog on the street and are the first to notice if something is wrong. Even if you cannot feed the dogs yourself, supporting these individuals with dry dog food, old bedsheets for shade, or just helping them monitor health trends helps the entire community remain stable and healthy.

4. Be Kinder Towards Their Sitting Arrangements

Sometimes, dogs dug up holes in your kyari (small garden area in front of your house) or below trees to sit in, please be kind towards them; if you can't do anything for them, just let them sit there and have their spot, don't remove them from that location, as it is their only comfort spot in the scorching hot weather. If you can put a wet bori (jute bag) at that spot it'll be even more comfortable for them to relax in and save themselves from the heat.