After 10-day care by Hazaribag rescuer and her team, paralysed stray dog walks again

Hazaribag: A stray dog that was completely paralysed and unable even to lift her neck around 10 days ago is now back on her feet and running — thanks to the sustained efforts of 28-year-old research associate and animal rescuer Priyal Akhouri Singh and her team.The dog, named Pintu, was found in a critical condition at Okni on June 3. With no body movements, her survival looked uncertain. Priyal and members of her organisation, Kritagya Group, took up the challenge, beginning intensive treatment under the guidance of retired govt veterinarian Hemant Victor Shaw.The team employed a mix of physiotherapy, infrared therapy and hydrotherapy. “We took Pintu to Hazaribag lake and released her in shallow water.

She started moving her legs on her own. We also conducted water exercises in the room,” Priyal said. The response, she added, was “surprising”.Within days, Pintu progressed from slight movement to crawling. On June 12, she stood up for the first time and soon began walking. After nearly 10 days of continuous care, the paralysed dog made a full recovery.On June 14, members of the group released Pintu near Okni lake, where residents gathered to witness the moment.

Many who had seen the dog lying helpless earlier, watched in amazement as she ran freely again.Shaw said, “These young people, especially Priyal, are doing a great job. They follow proper treatment guidelines and show remarkable commitment.”Priyal credited community support for the recovery. “When people treat animals with kindness and feed them, they become friendly. Pintu is proof of the behaviour,” she said.An alumnus of Carmel School and St Xavier’s School, Hazaribag, Priyal works as a qualitative researcher across rural Bihar and Jharkhand. But her larger mission lies in animal welfare. For the past six years, she has been actively rescuing and treating stray animals, often using her personal vehicle as a “red ambulance”.She is a member of People for Animals and is associated with wildlife rescue efforts. Through Kritagya Group, which has 12 active members, she handles rescues and treatment costs independently. The group is currently treating several injured dogs, including one undergoing chemotherapy near Dipugarha Chowk.Priyal says her commitment to service comes from family values rooted in helping the needy. “Treat animals with kindness. If you give love, you receive unlimited love in return,” she said.