inspiring the next generation of veterinary professionals to improve animal welfare

Recently, Animal Nepal’s sanctuary in Dukuchhap opened their doors to several groups of veterinary students from around the world. This is an important part of their work, as by allowing students to meet the rescued equines and learn about animal welfare, rescue and rehabilitation, the next generation will be inspired to address broader animal protection issues in Nepal.

August was a month of learning, connection and continued care at Animal Nepal’s Dukuchhap Animal Sanctuary. Alongside the daily care and welfare of our resident animals, the sanctuary welcomed several groups of veterinary students from Nepal and abroad, providing an opportunity to raise awareness about animal welfare and the realities faced by animals in Nepal. 

International Veterinary Students Visit the Sanctuary 

As part of the 75th International Veterinary Students Association (IVSA) Congress, veterinary students from around the world visited Dukuchhap Animal Sanctuary as part of an educational visit. The students had the opportunity to meet and learn about the animals in our care, hear their individual stories and understand some of the wider challenges facing animals in Nepal. The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss Animal Nepal’s approach to animal welfare, rescue and rehabilitation, as well as the importance of responsible animal care and the role of veterinarians in improving animal welfare. 

During August, we were also pleased to welcome a group of students from China, who spent time at the sanctuary learning about our work and the animals in our care. Their visit included a lengthy and engaging question-and-answer session, with discussions ranging from the status of animals and animal welfare in Nepal to the circumstances that bring animals to our sanctuary and how we care for them. 

These exchanges are an important part of our work. By opening the sanctuary to students and future veterinary professionals, we hope to encourage greater understanding of animal welfare and inspire the next generation to consider the welfare needs of animals alongside their medical care. 

Sangeet Adjusting After the Loss of Bruna 

Following the loss of our dear Bruna, we were particularly concerned about her lifelong companion, Sangeet. The two donkeys had shared a close bond, and we knew that her absence could be difficult for him. Thankfully, Sangeet is doing well.

While we continue to keep a close eye on him, he has adjusted well and appears to have found comfort and companionship with some of the other donkeys at the sanctuary. Their presence has helped to provide him with the social interaction and companionship that are so important to donkeys. The loss of Bruna is still felt at the sanctuary, but it has been reassuring to see Sangeet settling into his new routine and continuing to thrive. 

All Other Animals are going Well 

Our other resident animals are also going well and continue to receive daily care, veterinary monitoring, appropriate nutrition and plenty of attention from the sanctuary team. As always, our focus remains on ensuring that each animal has a safe, comfortable and enriching environment in which to live. 

August also gave us another opportunity to share the sanctuary with people who are interested in learning more about animal welfare in Nepal. Every visit helps us tell the stories of the animals in our care while highlighting the wider need for compassion, responsible ownership and stronger protection for animals across the country. We are grateful to all the students, veterinary professionals, volunteers and supporters who took the time to visit Dukuchhap and engage with our work recently. 

As always, we remain deeply grateful for your continued support. Our partnership with AAA enables us to provide life long care, medical treatment, and a safe home for our rescued and retired working animals.

With your wonderful support, we look forward to continuing our work improving the lives of animals already in our care while advocating for stronger protection of working animals across Nepal. Your support makes it possible for us to provide a home for the some of Nepal’s most vulnerable animals.