COIMBATORE: Lost in the urban labyrinth of Coimbatore, where shadows cling to broken bodies and spirits, stray animals wander, their cries swallowed by the city’s relentless hum. Forgotten, abandoned, they navigate a concrete jungle that offers little solace, their eyes reflecting the harsh realities of survival. But even in this symphony of indifference, a melody of compassion breaks through. The Planetic Foundation, a trio of hearts interwoven with empathy, hears those silent cries, transforming despair into hope, one paw print at a time.
Unlike many organisations that focus solely on sterilisation and stray dog management, The Planetic Foundation takes a unique approach. Their shelter serves as a sanctuary for animals with severe disabilities, offering a permanent home to those who are amputated, visually or hearing impaired, bedridden, or battling cancer and other illnesses. The foundation is committed to providing lifelong care for these animals, ensuring they have a safe and loving environment for the rest of their days.
“People sometimes misunderstand our work, thinking we simply relocate stray dogs,” explains Ganesan Somasundaram, a foundation trustee. “But we firmly believe in keeping animals within their familiar territories. We not only rescue and rehabilitate animals but also educate people in that area. We never forcibly remove strays from their areas, even when offered financial incentives.”
This ethos is embodied in their one-acre shelter located in Sengathurai, Sulur. Landowner Muthusamy generously provides the land rent-free. The facility is a haven for over 40 animals with permanent disabilities. From the victims of road and train accidents to life-threatening illnesses, these animals receive loving care day and night from the dedicated team.
Ganesan Somasundaram, a medical transcriptor, manages the foundation’s operations with precision. Austlin, a skilled chef, brings his logistical expertise to coordinate the shelter’s activities seamlessly, ensuring that every animal receives the care they need. Agassi, a mechanic and painter, serves as the NGO’s chairman, overseeing its functions with meticulous attention to detail. Anitha, another trustee, finds forever homes for rescued animals through adoption drives.
Funding this haven of hope costs nearly Rs 2 lakh each month, a burden the trio shoulders themselves. “Transport and finances are major constraints,” Ganesan admits. “We need sponsors and donations to expand and provide even better care.” The foundation’s immediate needs include acquiring a lorry for rescue operations and constructing a fully equipped treatment centre. The Planetic Foundation collaborates with organisations like the Humane Animal Society (HAS) and ASRA’s Dogs of Coimbatore, which operate the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation’s (CCMC) Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres, ensuring critical surgeries for injured animals. Each animal has a story. A blind dog learning to navigate, a three-legged puppy finding a family. One train-hit stray, now thriving at the shelter, embodies their dedication. Such stories fuel the trio’s determination to overcome challenges.
The Planetic Foundation’s journey is proof that a small group can make a big difference. “We urge people to volunteer, donate, and share our work,” Ganesan appeals. Their vision? A haven of healing, a lifeline on wheels, a city where compassion conquers indifference. In Coimbatore, where progress often forgets its most vulnerable, The Planetic Foundation rises. Join the movement. Rewrite their story.
(The Planetic Foundation, Sengathurai, Periyathottam, Sulur, Tamil Nadu 641401.
Ganesan – Phone: +91 9176988332
https://theplaneticfoundation.org/)
(Edited by Dinesh Jefferson E)
