Animal lovers to the ResQ

This group goes that extra mile to care for animals in distress, discovers Shree Lahiri

Animal lovers to the ResQ

This group goes that extra mile to care for animals in distress, discovers Shree Lahiri

Appalled by the cruelty meted towards strays, Neha Panchamiya (25) formed ResQ, an organisation that looks after animals in distress. Panchamiya took this initiative after she moved to Pune from Mumbai after quitting her job in a healthcare company in January 2007.

"However, getting help for such animals in Pune was a bit difficult," she said.

That's when she met Tanya Kane (27), a dietician, and the duo took upon the responsibility of helping the animals in agony. "Once, we tried to get help for an injured dog, but in vain. The poor creature died and it was then that we decided to do something for strays," said Panchamiya.

We care
Kane, who had quit her job in a bank before starting the organisation, said, "We're proud of what we have achieved till date. However, we know that we still have miles to go." Speaking about their vision, Kane said that they want make sure that no animal is in pain.

ResQ looks after animals that get injured in road accidents or are suffering from choking or poisoning by eating food thrown in the garbage. However, the organisation doesn't treat animals that come under wildlife. "Such cases are passed on to the forest department," said Kane. She added that 90 per cent of their work is on the streets out of which, 70 per cent is handled by their volunteers who are trained to administer first aid.

Charity for a cause
Besides, ResQ also organises events like charity movie shows, garage sales, adoption campaigns and rock for charity shows to generate funds. "We have a organised a ResQ charity sale on November 6 and 7," Kane said.
Meanwhile, Sunil Uttamchandani (42), an entrepreneur who deals in software, found his association with ResQ, a learning experience. "I have always loved animals, but working with ResQ, in a systematic manner, helps express my compassion in a better way," said Uttamchandani.

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