While all doors were shut during Cyclone Nivar, some kind residents opened them to strays.

In Chennai, as the cyclone wreaked havoc, members of various NGOs came together to rescue as many as 50 dogs and cattle from areas that were severely inundated.

15 dogs were saved by the NGO of Rahul Muthukumar of Manitham Pottruvom and his team. “We rescued the dogs from Kelambakkam side and housed them at a temporary shelter there,” The New Indian Express quoted Rahul as saying.

According to Arun Prasanna, founder of People for Cattle in India (PFCI), said that members of his team were spread across the inundated areas in Muttukadu, Vandalur, Tambaram and Red Hills to rescue and feed animals.

“We rescued ten dogs that required immediate medical care and shelter. We also provided food to around 300 dogs and cattle,” Arun said.

The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) also teamed up with the NGO to rescue animals. 

Several residents also opened their door to provide temporary shelter to dogs during the cyclone.