Itanagar, Dec 28: JB Foundation, Mizoram’s only privately run animal rescue centre, opened its Animal Rescue Shelter to the public on December 28, giving visitors an opportunity to witness its rescue work, make donations and adopt rescued animals.
The open shelter day was dedicated to the memory of Ezrela Dalidia Fanai, who passed away on December 25. The dedication honours her consistent reporting on animal welfare issues and her close association with the shelter.
The Foundation said all income generated through its animal hospital is utilised entirely for rescue and shelter operations. While Mizoram does not face a severe stray dog problem, the organisation noted a steady increase in rescued dogs due to illegal import from outside the state and a rise in cases of animal cruelty. It also reported a growing number of stray and abandoned cats.
Apart from domestic animals, the shelter regularly treats injured wild animals brought in by members of the public. These animals receive free medical care at the JB animal hospital, as they are unowned wildlife rescued on humanitarian grounds.
Speaking on the occasion, Foundation owner Zirtei said the initiative is driven purely by concern for animals. She added that most earnings from the hospital and pet shop are reinvested into running the shelter, which incurs daily expenses for food, care and medical treatment.
Zirtei appealed to animal lovers to support the shelter through donations and by adopting rescued animals, stressing that public participation is crucial for sustaining its work.
The Foundation also recalled Ezrela Dalidia Fanai’s role in highlighting animal welfare issues through her journalism and personal involvement. By dedicating the open shelter day to her memory, it said, the organisation aims to carry forward the values of compassion and commitment that she stood for.
