AMITY LAW SCHOOL KOLKATA,
AMITY UNIVERSITY KOLKATA
TOPIC- CARING FOR STRAY ANIMALS
By
LL.B.
2024-2027
Semester II
HUMAN VALUES AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH
SW102
Submitted by:
Nishat Tasnim (A90856124012)
CARING FOR STRAY ANIMALS
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its
animals are treated.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
For the past few years, I have been involved in a small but meaningful form of
community outreach – feeding stray dogs in my housing complex. What began
as a small act of kindness overtime became a crucial part of my life, one that
has taught me valuable lessons of empathy, responsibility and kindness.
In my housing complex many stray dogs live who struggle to survive on the
streets. Earlier the population of cats were much more and I used to feed them
every day. Over time the number of cats decreased but the number of dogs grew.
Now, I primarily feed the stray dogs that live inside the complex as well as
those living around. Even today, when I come across a stray cat, I make sure to
feed it. These animals struggle to feed themselves and have to endure harsh
weather conditions and also often get unkind treatment from people.
For years, I have been feeding stray dogs in my housing complex at night. I’ve
seen them grow in numbers and it makes me feel happy to be able to feed them.
I chose this time because it is peaceful, safe for the animals and gives me a quiet
opportunity to just sit there and connect with them. After dinner I go to take a
stroll and that is when I feed the dogs. I carry food for them as well as biscuits
from home. I make sure to feed all the dogs separately ensuring that no one goes
hungry. This simple routine has created a unique bond between me and the
animals. I have been scolded by some of the people residing in the complex but
that did not stop me from continuing what I did. They recognise me, approach
me without fear and show their affection in their own special way. One of these
ways is when I go for my daily night strolls, after they have had their food, they
will walk with me and escort me till my building. They wait till I get inside and
it is then when they leave.
Over time, I have noticed that my actions have quietly influenced people around
me. Some of my neighbours have become more accepting and even appreciative
of stray animals. Fewer people now shoo them away or treat them badly.
Though my outreach is small, it has created awareness and some sort of
compassion towards people’s attitude when it comes to stray dogs residing in
the complex.
Looking ahead, I hope to spread more awareness about the importance of
animal care within communities. Simple steps like placing safe feeding spots,
conducting awareness campaigns, or involving other residents in occasional
feeding activities can make a big difference. I believe that when people show
kindness to animals, it strengthens the moral and emotional fabric of the
community as a whole.
Through this experience, I have learned that small, consistent acts of kindness
reflect the greatest of human values. Caring for stray animals has taught me
about love, patience, and the importance of giving without expecting anything
in return. It has shown me that every living being deserves respect, care, and
compassion — values that lie at the heart of any good community.