How to Help Stray Dogs in Pune — A Practical Guide from Salome

Salome has been feeding strays in Salunkhe Vihar for years. Her honest, practical guide to safe feeding, Pune rescues and how to help without burning out.

Pune has a large stray dog population, and more residents than you'd imagine want to help — but aren't sure where to start, what's safe, or how to do it in a way that's sustainable. Salome has been feeding and supporting strays in Salunkhe Vihar since before The Pet Padosi existed. This is her practical guide.

Start With Consistent Feeding — Same Time, Same Place

Strays develop trust through routine. Feed at the same spot and the same time every day — ideally early morning or early evening. Use dry kibble rather than cooked food, which spoils quickly and attracts other animals. Basic puppy kibble like Purepet or Drools Puppy works well for adult strays too.

Clean Water is More Important Than Food

In Pune's summers, dehydration is a bigger killer than starvation for strays. Place a large water bowl near your feeding spot and rinse and refill it daily. In the monsoon, ensure it doesn't become a stagnant breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Learn the ABC Programme

Pune Municipal Corporation runs an Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme where strays are sterilised and vaccinated before being returned to their territory. If you see unsterilised strays in your area, contact Pune's animal welfare organisations to arrange pickup. Sterilised dogs have a notched or tipped ear — this is how you identify them.

Don't Feed From Your Hand Immediately

A stray dog that isn't used to humans can bite out of fear, even if it's not aggressive by nature. Let the dog see you place the food and walk away. Over several weeks, reduce the distance. Building trust takes time — don't rush it, especially around children.

What to Do if You Find an Injured Stray

Do not try to pick up an injured stray without proper protection — even a gentle dog will bite in pain. Call RESQ at 7888009365 (Pune) for emergency rescue. Keep the dog calm, don't try to move it, and stay nearby to guide the rescue team when they arrive.

Supporting Rescues Without Feeding Directly

Not everyone can commit to daily feeding — and that's completely fine. You can help by donating food, supplies or funds to local rescue organisations. At The Pet Padosi, we accept food and supply donations on behalf of RESQ and Paws Pune. Drop anything off at our store in Salunkhe Vihar and we'll ensure it reaches them.