AAA Welcomes New Partner Group - Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA)

One of our newest partner groups is Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA). They are based in Bengaluru, India, and have a particular focus on rescuing and rehabilitating large working animals.

You can read their first report below:

Project Introduction

Since 2012, CUPA's Large Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre (LARRC) has served as a sanctuary for working animals such as cows, bullocks, ponies, donkeys, and horses rescued from neglect, abandonment, or harsh working conditions. The centre currently provides a safe and nurturing environment for over 120 such animals, focusing on long-term rehabilitation and care. 

This project aims to enhance the health and welfare of working and draught animals in Bengaluru, both within CUPA shelters and in the field. Through organised health camps and consistent nutritional support, the initiative targets ponies, donkeys, and bullocks who continue to play a vital role in transport and agriculture, especially in semi-urban and rural communities. 

Among these are tonga ponies - small yet resilient animals traditionally used to pull tongas (two-wheeled carriages). Despite their importance in affordable local transport, many suffer from poor nutrition and untreated health issues due to the limited means of their owners. Similarly, bullocks - often employed in agriculture and for transporting goods - face comparable neglect, particularly in the face of urbanisation and modernisation, which has led to a decline in the use of traditional transport methods. 

Recognising the continued reliance on these animals in certain communities, this project focuses on delivering targeted healthcare interventions and nutrition support to approximately 250 to 300 animals over an 11 month period. By combining shelter-based rehabilitation with community outreach through health camps, the initiative seeks to significantly improve the quality of life for Bengaluru's remaining working and draught animals. 

Rescue and Rehabilitate Large Working Animals:

CUPA is committed to rescuing large working animals such as cows, bulls, horses, donkeys, and buffaloes, many of whom have been subjected to neglect, harsh working conditions, or abandonment.

Activities Undertaken 

Activity 1: Rehabilitation and Daily Care of Rescued Large Animals

CUPA LARRC currently houses 38 bullocks, 14 ponies, and 8 donkeys who are undergoing various stages of rehabilitation after being rescued from neglect, injuries, fractures, or abuse. This ongoing activity includes providing medical attention, nutritious food, dietary supplements, and regular monitoring. Weak or injured animals receive focused care, ensuring their recovery and long-term wellbeing. 

Activity 2: Veterinary Supervision and Monitoring

All animals, especially those in a weaker condition, are kept under continuous veterinary observation. Regular health checks and timely medication are administered. This proactive approach helps identify issues early, manage chronic conditions, and promote steady recovery . 

Activity 3: Hoof Health Management for Ponies and Donkeys 

Special attention is given to hoof care - an essential part of equine health. Regular hoof cleaning, trimming, and treatments are provided, especially for the ponies and donkeys. Before and after images demonstrate the improvements in hoof condition after intervention, ensuring mobility and comfort. 

Activity 4: Outreach Programme for Working Ponies – Medical Camps and Nutrition Support 

Background: 

A significant number of working ponies and donkeys, particularly those used in "Tonga" transportation systems across Bangalore, suffer from chronic neglect, undernourishment, and physical exhaustion. These animals are essential to the livelihoods of their owners, yet often receive inadequate veterinary care and poor-quality nutrition, leading to a range of health issues including fatigue, muscle weakness, digestive disorders, and hoof problems. 

Recognising this critical gap in animal welfare, CUPA launched its first structured outreach programme aimed at improving the well-being of these hardworking equines. 

Key Highlights of the Outreach Programme: 

On June 28, 2025, CUPA organised the first ever large scale outreach for working ponies, targeting areas where Tonga operators are commonly found. The initiative focused on both immediate relief and long term support. 

Services Provided: 

• Deworming: All 52 ponies received full deworming treatment to address parasitic infestations which are common and contribute to weight loss, lethargy, and lowered immunity. 

• Medical Checkups: Each animal underwent a basic veterinary examination, including evaluation of body condition, vital signs, hoof health, and visible signs of distress or injury. 

• Nutrition Support: Specially formulated nutrient rich feed and supplements were distributed to owners. These included mineral and vitamin mixes designed to: 

o Improve energy levels 

o Enhance digestion 

o Support joint and bone health 

o Promote recovery in underweight or weak animals 

Community Feedback and Early Impact: 

Post intervention feedback from pony owners has been overwhelmingly positive. Within a few weeks of the outreach: 

• Many owners reported visible improvements in energy, appetite, and endurance. 

• Animals previously noted to be lethargic or showing signs of fatigue were observed to be more active and responsive. 

• Some ponies with digestive discomfort or dull coats showed signs of healthier digestion and coat shine, indicating improved internal health. 

This strong response has validated our assumption that basic, preventive care can create a significant improvement in the lives of working equines and help sustain the livelihoods of their dependent owners. 

Strategic Plan: Expanding the Outreach: 

This outreach is the first step in CUPA's comprehensive plan to reach as many working ponies and donkeys across Bangalore by the end of this financial year (March 2026). The broader plan includes: 

• Quarterly outreach drives in targeted zones across the city 

• Continued monitoring of animals served 

• Building a database of owners and their animals to track progress 

• Facilitating owner education on basic animal care and early signs of illness 

With your steadfast support, CUPA aims to create a sustainable impact on equine welfare while building a strong network of trust and cooperation with the working animal community in Bangalore.