Punjab Flood 2025 – Impact on Animals, Livestock, and Pets in Affected Villages
Introduction
The Punjab Flood 2025 has not only displaced thousands of families but has also severely affected animals, livestock, and pets, particularly in rural villages across Ajnala, Ramdas, Tarn Taran, and Amritsar. Floodwaters have destroyed shelters, grazing lands, and farms, leaving animals vulnerable to injury, disease, and starvation.
Animals Most Affected
1. Domestic Pets (Dogs & Cats)
Many dogs and cats in villages were stranded in floodwaters.
Lack of shelter and food caused distress and loss of life in several households.
Stray dogs are also heavily affected, with some swept away by strong currents.
2. Livestock (Cattle, Buffaloes, Goats, Sheep)
Paddy and wheat fields submerged, leaving livestock with limited access to fodder.
Flooded barns and sheds destroyed homes for cows, buffaloes, and goats.
Veterinary services are stretched, making it difficult to provide immediate medical aid.
3. Poultry and Farm Birds
Chickens, ducks, and pigeons in low-lying areas drowned or were displaced.
Eggs and poultry stock destroyed, impacting small farmers’ incomes.
On-Ground Rescue and Animal Relief Efforts
DC Sakshi Sawhney & District Administration: Coordinating with local volunteers to rescue stranded animals in flood-hit villages.
NGOs & Animal Welfare Organizations: Providing food, water, temporary shelters, and basic veterinary care.
Stray Dogs & Pets: Special focus on rescuing dogs stranded near waterlogged areas, providing safe shelters and medical care.
Mobile Veterinary Units: Traveling to severely affected villages to treat injured or sick livestock.
Challenges in Animal Rescue
High water levels and strong currents make evacuating animals extremely dangerous.
Lack of sufficient temporary shelters for large numbers of livestock and pets.
Risk of disease outbreaks due to contaminated floodwater.
Limited availability of fodder, medicine, and veterinary support in rural flood-affected zones.
How Communities and Citizens Can Help
Volunteer at Animal Shelters: Help feed and care for rescued pets and livestock.
Donate: Contribute to verified NGOs providing animal food, medicines, and temporary shelters.
Report Stranded Animals: Inform local authorities or NGOs if animals are trapped or injured.
Support Local Farmers: Assist in rebuilding barns, providing fodder, and rescuing livestock.
Conclusion
The Punjab Flood 2025 has caused untold suffering to both humans and animals. Stray dogs, domestic pets, and farm animals have been severely impacted, highlighting the need for integrated disaster management that includes animal welfare. Coordinated efforts by government, NGOs, volunteers, and animal welfare groups are essential to rescue, treat, and rehabilitate affected animals.