What began as a complaint about the treatment of working animals at a construction site in Dehradun has resulted in the rescue of four donkeys and mules that are now recovering at a sanctuary under veterinary care. The animals were allegedly being used to transport heavy construction materials inside a multi-storey building, prompting intervention by animal welfare activists.
The rescue was initiated after an animal welfare organisation received information regarding the animals’ condition. According to details shared by People For Animals (PFA) trustee Gauri Maulekhi on Instagram, the complaint was received on June 6, following which a rescue team visited the site and coordinated with local police and veterinary officials.
Sharing details of the rescue, Maulekhi alleged that the animals had been subjected to harsh working conditions at the construction site. “In an under-construction building in Dehradun, four donkeys and mules were being forced to carry construction material up ten flights of stairs every day.”
Videos shared on social media showed the animals climbing steep staircases while carrying loads, sparking outrage and concern among viewers. The footage quickly drew attention to the challenges faced by working animals and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws.
Following the rescue, the donkeys and mules were examined by veterinarians, who reportedly found them in poor health.
“All four were found in severe condition, dehydrated, exhausted, with damaged joints and deteriorated hooves.”
The animals were then shifted to Happy Home Sanctuary, where they were provided with medical treatment, proper nutrition and a safe space to recover.
The matter later came before a court after the owner sought custody of the rescued animals. However, the request was rejected, allowing the animals to remain under the care of the welfare organisation while the legal case continues.
Sharing the outcome, Maulekhi stated, “The court ruled that animals subjected to cruelty cannot be handed back to the accused while the case is pending and must remain in the care of a recognised animal welfare organisation.”
As a result of the ruling, the four animals continue to stay at the sanctuary, where their recovery is being monitored by caretakers and veterinary experts.
The rescued donkeys and mules are now safe at Happy Home Sanctuary, where they are recovering under expert supervision. Maulekhi noted that the sanctuary currently looks after more than 250 rescued animals and relies on continued support for their daily care.
“These four are now safe. More than 250 rescued animals at Happy Home Sanctuary continue to depend on us every day-and their care never stops.”
The rescue has highlighted the plight of working animals and underscored the role of public reporting and animal welfare groups in addressing cases of alleged cruelty.