Monsoon with a Mission: Nikita Ghag’s Lifesaving Work for Strays
By Nikita Ghag – Founder & President, DAWA
When the first rains hit the earth, most of us celebrate with joy — the smell of wet mud, hot chai, cozy evenings. But for thousands of stray animals, monsoon means only one thing: survival mode.
No roof, No warmth, No protection, Just cold winds, flooded streets, and fear, No warmth, No protection.
At DAWA (Defend Animals Watch Association), we’ve been rescuing, healing, and sheltering stray, abandoned, and injured animals since 2014. I founded DAWA with one mission: to be the voice for the voiceless. And year after year, the rains break our hearts — but also show us how powerful kindness can be.
The Monsoon Struggle: A Silent Emergency
Stray animals suffer in silence. As storms lash down, these creatures scramble for safety — hiding under cars, inside drains, or in construction debris. Many fall sick. Some get injured. A few never survive the night.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. With a little effort and awareness, you can become the difference between despair and hope.
5 Simple Ways to Help Strays This Monsoon
1️⃣ Leave Food in Dry Spots
Place bowls of rice, biscuits, milk, or leftovers in sheltered areas — under a staircase, inside a society gate, or near a shop. They may be too scared to ask, but they are starving.
Tip: Refill bowls regularly and place bricks underneath to prevent flooding.
2️⃣ Check Under Your Vehicle Before Driving
Cats, dogs, and even birds often take shelter under vehicles to escape the rain. Before you start your engine, knock on the hood or look underneath.
A second’s attention can prevent a tragedy.
3️⃣ Offer Shelter Where You Can
A cardboard box, an old umbrella, or a worn blanket in a dry corner can be a lifesaver. If possible, allow animals to take shelter in your society’s parking lot, stairwells, or verandas.
Temporary shelter can mean permanent hope.
4️⃣ Report Distress – Don’t Walk Away
If you see an injured, bleeding, or extremely weak animal — don’t ignore it. Contact @dawa_india immediately or call our helpline: 8686869224.
You don’t need to do it alone. We’re here for them, with you.
5️⃣ Spread Awareness
Share this blog, talk to your building society, involve local shopkeepers. Even one conversation can spark a wave of kindness. Follow our updates and rescues on social media to stay informed and inspired.
Follow Nikita Ghag on Instagram for real-time rescue stories and tips on helping animals.
It’s Not Just About Dogs & Cats
The monsoon impacts all wildlife — injured birds with soaked feathers, abandoned pets left to fend for themselves, reptiles displaced from their homes. Our rescue team has saved:
Sparrows stuck in drainpipes
Turtles washed into roads
Paralyzed cats shivering in the rain
Puppies drowning in potholes
Every life matters. Every being deserves compassion.
From Nikita
“Animals don’t ask for much — just a chance to live. And sometimes, that chance lies in our hands. Since I began DAWA, I’ve witnessed thousands of rescues that happened simply because one human decided to care. Please, this monsoon, let that human be you.”
Be the Reason a Stray Survives the Rain
This monsoon, let’s change what it means to be human. Let’s not walk past their pain. Let’s look out for those who’ve been forgotten by most — but not by us.
👉 Help feed. Help shelter. Help rescue. 👉 Be kind. Be aware. Be their voice. 👉 Be the reason a stray survives.
