Kudla strays get smart reflective collars, thanks to rescuer Tauseef

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, April 29, 2019: Stray dogs are always at the risk of getting run over on busy roads in several cities. But one animal rights activist from Mangaluru is doing his bit to change that.

For over a month now, Tauseef Ahmad has been tying reflective collars around the necks of stray dogs in city to protect them from getting hit by speedy vehicles.

"It has been 1.5 months I’ve started this project and luckily not a single dog with a collar around its neck has been injured," Tauseef Ahmad told news agency ANI. He has already tagged 400 dogs with reflective collars.

"Based on my own observations, I gathered that most of these accidents occur during the night time due to the lack of visibility of the stray animals. Especially close to the highway, there are an unaccounted number of deaths of these animals on the road," he was quoted as saying by the website.

“The reflector belt on dogs not only saves the lives of these animals, but it also saves the lives of the drivers," he added, pointing to multiple incidents involving stray dogs and two-wheelers.

Ahmad believes a simple reflector can help prevent such mishaps.

Each reflective belt costs Rs 40 and Ahmad said he had bought around 500 from Indore using his personal savings.

"We have already distributed them to few local residents and animal lovers to identify stray dogs and protect them. Inspired by the initiative, few locals have also taken into sponsoring ’stray’ animals with belts," he says.

Last year, Tauseef was the youngest recipient of ‘Best Street Care and Rescue’ award at India for Animals (IFA).

Meanwhile, social media users hailed Ahmad’s heartwarming efforts to save stray dogs.

Hailing from Chikkamagaluru, Tauseef who is based in Mangaluru since the past several years, is an MBA graduate who is also into real estate business. This 31 year old animal rescuer is a role model in more ways to one. In order to help the injured animals which he rescues, he  has even undergone training under a veterinarian.

Tauseef is also the author of ’Straying Around’  which he describes as an autobiography of a stray dog. The  Homeless Animals Rescue Team which he founded,  intends to train individuals in animal rescue operations.