Thane Community for the Protection and Care of Animals (Thane CPCA)

Thane CPCA engages in a comprehensive animal welfare programme. It responds to distress calls through its Animal Helpline, maintaining confidentiality and, if required, anonymity. With a fleet of three ambulances covering a vast district, it extends its rescue services to neighbouring areas as well. Responding to an average of 50+ calls daily, the Mobile Clinic and Rescue Service provide immediate on-the-spot treatment for minor injuries and illnesses. Additionally, the trained rescue team manages street animals' varying pain and injuries, transporting those in need of intensive care to the Emergency Care Center at the hospital.

Thane CPCA operates a comprehensive rehabilitation programme for community animals. Upon presentation as outpatients, animals are diagnosed and treated by skilled veterinarians, with recovery periods ranging from one week to three months. Common ailments treated include broken spine and limbs, skin diseases, wounds, distemper, parvo, and heat stroke. The organisation offers subsidized or free procedures such as bone pinning, plating, aural hematomas, tumour excision, eyeball ablations, amputations, hernia corrections, peutomies, ovaria-hysterectomies, and castration. Emphasizing animal birth control surgeries, it aims to sterilize and inoculate animals before release, contributing to international rabies control efforts and reducing human hostility. For animals unable to return to their territory, fostering and adoption processes are facilitated, involving thorough house checks and post-adoption monitoring for up to two years.

Thane CPCA finds great satisfaction in witnessing animals return to their original habitats. The unique aspect of Indian community animals lies in their often having local caretakers or feeders who initially bring attention to their conditions. In cases reported by passersby, the organisation diligently visits the release spot multiple times in the subsequent weeks to ensure the animal's comfort. For wild animals, a collaboration with the Forest Department is established, notifying them prior to release. The release occurs in the animal's natural habitat, with the presence of relevant officials ensuring a seamless transition.

Thane CPCA prioritizes one-on-one outreach, using its activities as a platform for positive change. Gatherings around its ambulances serve as opportunities for direct engagement, demonstrating people's dedication to animal well-being. The organisation imparts knowledge about animal welfare and rights, encouraging the community to take preventive measures. School and college students visiting regularly gain firsthand experience in animal hospital operations, contributing to internships for animal welfare. These initiatives educate on reporting cruelty, humane pet care, and the pain animals endure, inspiring a shift towards vegetarianism. The organisation creates an environment where individuals forge a physical connection with animals, carrying the message of love back into their communities.