Stray Dogs: Rourkela homemaker provides sanctuary for stray dogs | Bhubaneswar News
Rourkela: Sasmita Joshi, a 50-year-old homemaker from Sundargarh’s Brahmanipada, dedicated nearly two decades of her life to a noble cause — caring for stray dogs. Despite facing criticism from various quarters, Sasmita has remained steadfast in her mission to provide a safe haven for these animals.
Today, her home is a sanctuary for 22 stray dogs and five puppies, whom she lovingly treats as her own children.Sasmita’s journey began 19 years ago when she witnessed a heartbreaking scene — a stray dog, severely injured after being hit by a vehicle, lying helpless on the street. Driven by compassion, she brought the dog home, nursed it back to health, and thus began her life-long commitment to helping stray animals. Her husband initially opposed her decision. However, Sasmita’s unwavering determination eventually won him over.
Over the years, Sasmita has taken in countless stray dogs she found in dire conditions on the streets. She bathes the dogs, feeds them on time, and ensures they receive necessary medical attention. The dogs have become an integral part of her family, freely roaming in the house and sleeping on her bed.
“My heart cries for the stray dogs. Earlier, there were more stray dogs in my house. However, despite my care, few of them have died,” said Sasmita. She also mentioned her efforts to secure a piece of land from the local administration to build a shelter for stray dogs.
Despite her requests and receiving a recommendation from the former Sundargarh collector, Parag Harshad Gavali, her efforts were thwarted by the high cost of land and lack of official support.
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