Archive · 22 Aug 2026
Simple Monsoon Care Helps Bengaluru’s Street Dogs Survive
Bengaluru’s street dogs can have a hard time during the rainy season.
People can help by making a small, dry shelter from a cardboard box and plastic sheet.
The shelter should be placed somewhere raised and protected from rain.
Dogs also need food that stays dry and is easy to digest.
Clean water in a covered bowl is safer than drinking from puddles.
People can use a simple first-aid kit for small wounds or ticks.
They should not give medicines like antibiotics or ivermectin without knowing the dog’s weight and consulting a professional.
Dogs with serious wounds, breathing trouble, pale gums, or swollen limbs need a vet or animal rescue group.
Small acts of care can help community dogs survive the monsoon.
Bengaluru residents use low-cost shelters, including lined cardboard boxes, to keep community dogs dry.
A basic shelter can cost under Rs 500 and should be raised under an awning or stairwell.
Dry kibble, plain biscuits, or unseasoned rice with boiled chicken or egg are recommended during the rains.
Covered water bowls, rather than stagnant puddles, help reduce exposure to contaminated floodwater.
A basic first-aid pouch can help with minor wounds and ticks, but serious symptoms require a vet or rescue group.
- Who
- Bengaluru residents, community feeders, canine squads, shelters, veterinarians, and animal rescue groups caring for community dogs.
- What
- They are using inexpensive shelters, safe food and water, and basic first aid to protect street dogs during the monsoon.
- When
- During Bengaluru’s rainy season, which begins with heavy showers every June and lasts about four months.
- Where
- Across Bengaluru, including near homes, community dog spots, parks, stairwells, awnings, and compound gates.
- Why
- To help an estimated 2.7 lakh community dogs avoid exposure, hunger, contaminated water, wounds, ticks, and rain-related illness.
- Estimated community dogs
- About 2,70,000, or 2.7 lakh, in Bengaluru
- Basic shelter cost
- Under Rs 500 for a lined cardboard-box shelter
- Recommended shelter materials
- A sturdy cardboard box, plastic or tarpaulin lining, and a raised sheltered location
- Suggested foods
- Dry kibble, plain biscuits, or boiled rice with unseasoned chicken or egg
- Water guidance
- Use a clean, covered bowl instead of stagnant puddles
- First-aid supplies
- Povidone-iodine, antiseptic powder, gloves, a torch, tick-removal tools, and a soft muzzle
- Professional help
- Serious symptoms should be reported to a nearby veterinarian or rescue group