Jamshedpur Red Paws Rescue Foundation (JRPRF) on Saturday made an appeal to the citizens of the steel city to help stray animals during the shower season.

The NGO, which works for stray animals, also came up with a few tips on how to help animals in need since most people think twice before offering help to strays.

“They need a safe house, shelter or any physical structure – something that humans can afford to protect themselves but stray animals cannot,” said JRPRF founder Aniz Patel.

During the monsoon season in India, stray animals suffer the most due to the absence of a permanent roof for them, he added.

“The very least you can do is to provide shelter to puppies and dogs who are struggling to find cover. You can start by letting them in your garage and staircase area,” he suggested.

Members of the NGO also came up with tips, which included building temporary sheds in public parks or in one’s locality.

“Not everyone has the luxury of space and a majority of people in Indian cities live in crammed lanes and crowded areas. If you cannot afford to let a stray animal inside, you can do your bit by making a temporary shelter instead,” one of the members said.

Animal care and treatment is essential during monsoon, when water-borne diseases affect a lot of people as well as stray animals.

Dogs, cats, cows and bulls have wounds, which are further aggravated after they get drenched in rain, sometimes resulting in maggots.

Applying anti-tick powder and providing dry spots for animals to sit can be an ideal way to avoid such possibilities, the member said.

Members of the NGO members have asked citizens to reach out to them if they need any help with stray animals.

“Many a time people are not adept to handle the situation or look after a suffering stray animal. On such occasions, people can contact us on 9386698020 and follow us on Facebook and Instagram,” Patel said.

“In the case of altercations with any fellow resident, remember the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 which denies the right to kill, harm, dislocate and displace a stray animal. This means providing shelter to stray animals is a lawful act,” he added.

JRPRF organised an anti-rabies vaccination drive and placed reflective collars on stray dogs last month.