Rescued Pets from Landslide-Hit Wayanad Find Safe Haven in North India

Rapid Summary

• Background: Chooralmala-Mundakkai landslide from a year ago rendered 16 pet animals homeless after their owners died in the disaster.
• Adoption Effort: The Department of Animal Welfare assigned PETA to rehabilitate these pets, comprising nine cats, five kittens, and two dogs.
• Outcome: Thirteen out of the sixteen pets were successfully adopted by individuals in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Himachal pradesh. Three pets died due to poor health during transport.
• Landslide Impact on Animals: Over 2,700 animals perished in the landslides; 202 dairy farmers lost cattle; over 230 domestic animals were injured.Survivors received aid through food and supplements provided by private individuals, dairy farmers’ organizations, and alumni groups from veterinary colleges.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The prosperous adoption of pets displaced by tragic natural disasters reflects an inclusive approach toward animal welfare following large-scale calamities. Assigning PETA to lead rehabilitation was pragmatic given its expertise in this domain. While the survival rate (13 out of 16) demonstrates commendable efforts despite logistical challenges like health concerns during transportation, it underscores broader lessons about ethical treatment and dedicated resources for post-disaster animal care.

The overwhelming impact on livestock-over 2,700 deaths coupled with severe injuries-highlights significant economic losses for affected dairy farmers alongside emotional trauma from losing livelihood sources or companions. Efforts by private organizations alongside veterinary alumni demonstrate community resilience but also point to gaps that need addressing at structural levels (e.g., faster mobilization). This case sets a precedent for integrating animal-focused disaster rehabilitation into broader recovery frameworks across India’s vulnerable regions.

Published – July 23, 2025
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