Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Rotaract Club of BMSCE organized an impactful visit to the CUPA Trauma Shelter in Bengaluru, focusing on animal welfare, adoption, and community engagement. This immersive event sought to raise awareness about CUPA's vital work in rescuing and rehabilitating animals, while also fostering a compassionate community dedicated to animal well-being. Highlights included a group wall-painting activity, an informative tour of all the rescued animals, and interactive discussions on the shelter's challenges. The event encouraged attendees to support CUPA’s adoption drive and consider adopting or volunteering, leaving participants with a profound understanding of animal welfare issues and the shelter's mission. EVENT DESCRIPTION: On 19th October 2024, 40 enthusiastic participants gathered at CUPA Trauma Shelter. The day began with an informative introduction about the center’s history and mission. Participants were briefed on how CUPA Trauma Shelter operates uniquely compared to typical shelters, emphasizing the need for a calm, respectful approach. They were guided to maintain a quiet demeanor and avoid sudden movements or loud noises to ensure the animals felt safe and at ease. Participants were then divided into groups of five for a wall-painting activity, which began with a thorough preparation of the area. They collaborated to clean the designated walls, apply tape for precise borders, and prime the surfaces, ensuring a smooth base for painting. Coordinators from CUPA joined in, making the process enjoyable by engaging in friendly conversations with volunteers and sharing insights about the shelter’s work. This activity not only allowed participants to showcase their creativity but also fostered teamwork and camaraderie, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere within the shelter. Following this, attendees enjoyed a guided tour of the facility, where they explored the dedicated shelters for both dogs and cats and gained insight into the various challenges faced by rescued animals. The CUPA coordinators highlighted the harsh realities of excessive breeding, particularly in unregulated settings where female dogs are often bred continuously under poor conditions. This frequent breeding leads to severe physical and psychological stress for the animals, and once they are no longer seen as "profitable," many are simply abandoned. Attendees learned about the effects of these conditions, including common issues like skin infections and weakened immune systems due to neglect and inadequate care. CUPA’s efforts to rehabilitate these animals and treat conditions stemming from their trauma offered participants a compelling view of the shelter’s work and the critical need for compassionate intervention in cases of abuse and abandonment. The event concluded on a positive and inspiring note, with participants gathering for a closing session where they shared reflections on the day’s experiences and insights. Many expressed newfound empathy for the animals and a commitment to supporting CUPA’s mission, whether through adoption, volunteering, or spreading awareness. The CUPA team thanked the volunteers for their contributions, underscoring how their efforts had directly helped brighten the shelter and uplifted the animals’ environment. The day wrapped up with a group photo, smiles all around, and a collective sense of accomplishment and hope for a better future for the animals in CUPA’s care. SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS: Collaborative wall-painting activity, promoting teamwork and creativity. Engaging CUPA coordinators who shared insights and connected with volunteers. Guided tour of facilities, detailing the care provided for rescued animals. Insights on issues like excessive breeding, abandonment, and health impacts on animals. Promotion of CUPA’s adoption drive and volunteer opportunities. Positive closing reflection, fostering commitment to animal welfare advocacy. IMPACT ON ATTENDEES: Participants left the event buzzing with excitement and a deeper understanding of animal welfare issues, especially the vital role shelters like CUPA play in making a difference! The gathering not only fostered team building and networking among members but also ignited a shared passion for animal care and advocacy. Many attendees expressed enthusiasm for supporting future adoption initiatives and volunteering opportunities, eager to contribute their time and energy. Together, we are building a brighter future for our furry friends, and the positive energy from this event will surely inspire ongoing action and commitment to animal welfare.