CARETAKER BEST PRACTICES

“Accountability & responsibility is a trying virtue unless distributed periodically among others, if not evenly. “

1.Differentiate between emergencies, cases that can wait & cases that need your personal attention or the ones that can be delegated.

2.Make people accountable as opposed to being that enthusiastic student raising a hand all the time when asked a question. Others may know the answer but might just opt to remain silent. Don't be an enthusiastic caretaker. Remember, experience means showing the way, not walking the path for someone else.

3.Collective excellence is achieved only in pockets, so here's how you go about it -

•Identify feeders in your area. You may not want to be part of a large group but can always form your own to create better reach.

•Build a network of rescuers and caretakers in likeminded people. They could be a mixed group of garages, bakeries, bbmp workers, tea stalls, road vendors, shops / stores, factories, etc. You’d be surprised how handy this network will be when you’re looking for lost dogs or want to facilitate a sterilization drive.

•Pass on knowledge, its valuable!

•Guide them when they call you for help. You'd be surprised how many of your rescues can be managed remotely Just like majority of the cases can be spot treated and not every incident needs admission. In my experience. 65% of the cases can be spot treated. Yes, it takes huge effort, determination and discipline however there are several bright sides to it. It’s economical, we continue to expand our knowledge, people watch what you’re doing, ask questions and then get involved and some follow suit with your help.

•Keep a list of all your rescues and follow up regularly for updates or visit them when you have time.

•Teach people what and what not to feed. Educate people to leave water outside their homes and stores.

•Encourage them to pick up an animal in distress while guiding them over a video call. Key guidance techniques will involve noosing the dog, carrying, transportation, admission and fund raising. Prepare them on the responsibility they are singing up for. Explain the impact they are creating. Note: This may not work for all cases so situational discretion is recommended.

•Work with your vets to facilitate a community animal discount for them so they are encouraged to help the next animal.

•It's ok to ask reporters to pay the vets for rescues they bring to you for help. One can make a larger impact only when there is balance in the operation.

•Most importantly, be patient. What seems like a small thing for a seasoned caretaker might be a sea of information for an aspiring caretaker so no matter how small a question us or how many times you’re being asked, respond patiently.