Home / Environment / Authorities Shut Down Animal Hoarder's Facility After Years of Abuse
Authorities Shut Down Animal Hoarder's Facility After Years of Abuse
10 Oct
Summary
- Over 300 animals rescued from facility over 5 raids
- Animals found severely dehydrated, weak, and suffering from diseases
- Hoarder masqueraded as an animal shelter but failed to provide proper care
In a series of raids conducted over the past few months, authorities in Udupi have shut down an animal rescue center run by Sudhindra Aithal. The facility, which had been operating in Saligrama, was found to be in severe non-compliance with multiple closure orders issued by the local panchayat, animal husbandry department, and the district administration.
During the latest raid on October 10, 2025, 16 more animals, including 13 puppies, 2 kittens, and a semi-adult dog, were rescued from the facility. This brings the total number of animals rescued from the center to over 300 across 5 separate operations.
The rescued animals were found to be in a deplorable state, severely dehydrated, weak, and suffering from a range of viral infections, eye problems, injuries, and parasitic infestations. Many were bone-thin and afflicted with deadly contagious diseases like canine distemper, parvovirus, and feline herpesvirus.
Authorities have stated that the hoarder, Sudhindra Aithal, had been masquerading as an animal shelter but was unable to provide the animals with proper care and nutrition. The facility was filled with filth, posing a public nuisance and causing immense suffering to the hundreds of animals kept in confined spaces.
The Udupi police have registered an FIR against Aithal under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the remaining permanent cage structures at the facility are set to be dismantled and destroyed to prevent any further abuse.
