The recent cases of animal-cruelty have made one thing undeniably clear – animal rights in Pakistan are practically non-existent. Despite this, however, many organizations continue to work against the oppression of the voiceless. One such organization, who only recently made their social media presence known, is Animal Rescue Club (ARC) Pakistan. Team ProperGaanda reached out to ARC Pakistan to better understand their motivations, goals and experiences.
Tell us a bit about your organization and what you do.
Established in 2018, ARC rescues street animals, provides them with emergency support (via renowned vet clinics) and helps them find loving homes. To date, we have rescued over 40 animals including dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits. ARC comprises of volunteers whose personal ambition and mission is to eradicate animal cruelty and help street animals live a happier and healthier life. Currently, we are a team of eight volunteers spending our time on this noble cause. https://www.instagram.com/p/CDJD-54B0fQ/
Why did you begin this project?
Having lived abroad for my schooling, I (founder of ARC) saw communities, society, and governments really look after the street animals. For example, in Turkey, the government ran an organised campaign to vaccinate the street dogs and entire neighborhoods would make sure they are well fed. In extreme contrast, in our country the government runs campaigns to kill dogs and the general public injure and even kill them. When I came back to Pakistan I felt something had to be done and that gave birth to ARC. I believe this little initiative can make a big difference for the most vulnerable segment of society – helpless and abused animals, the voiceless.
Do you have any memorable anecdotes of animal rescues?
We have one very memorable story of one of our first rescues which dates back to early 2018. We came across an almost-dying puppy under heavy snowfall in the Murree hills. How we got him down to Islamabad, flew him to Karachi and how he battled the deadly parvovirus for three weeks and fought against all odds to survive makes it a very special rescue. He’s now a two year-old handsome adult dog happily living with us. https://www.instagram.com/p/CDEzTEdBNta/
Why do you think there is such a lack of empathy for animals in Pakistan?
We believe it’s a combination of multiple factors. Number one is lack of education – the average Pakistani doesn’t realise that animals experience emotional and physical pain just like human beings. Number 2 is the lack of government initiative – a country with very limited resources cannot have animal welfare on their priority. Number 3 is the absence of initiative from the educated silent majority, from the ones who have the feelings and the resources but only empathise with no action.
What can the average civilian do to help you?
ARC aims to give a platform to people who want to contribute as volunteers to this cause. Currently we are not looking for donations but we do need passionate volunteers who are willing to commit a part of their time to our mission. In addition we are planning to put together a digital campaign against animal cruelty. The average Pakistani can help us by simply sharing our posts and hence spreading awareness. https://www.instagram.com/p/CDD3yKqBt6k/
Do you have any message for the people of Pakistan?
ALL of YOU can make a difference. If you can save one animal then do it because “you may not change the world by saving an animal, but you will change the world for that animal.” If you cannot do this then educate the people around you against animal cruelty. If one person can pass this message to ten people, soon the message will reach a million people and trigger a change in the society. To bring change, you have to be the change. Disclaimer: This is an unpaid article designed to promote awareness regarding animal-rights in Pakistan. While every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy and the credibility of the platform mentioned, Team ProperGaanda bears no responsibility for their actions or lack thereof. Also read: This is how 3 student-run NGOs are making a difference in Karachi and Islamabad