ISDF has been rehoming Desi (“Indian”) street dogs for several years and the Founder, Dawn Trimmel, even has one as a cherished family member, a remarkable dog named Sheru. They are without a doubt, a treasure, and make remarkable pets. Desi dogs are some of the smartest, loyal, and healthiest of dogs. One could say they are the “original dogs”, descendants of royal and ancient breeds that have survived the rough streets for generations. Through natural evolution their physical characteristics took on characteristics that enabled them to survive. The typical desi dog has an athletic and lean build which enables them to run fast and survive on minimal food intake. They typically have raised ears to enable them to hear better and longer snouts allowing them to smell more keenly. One could say they are their own breed which has evolved over time and there has been talk of officially making the street dog their own official breed.
Interestingly, most street dogs around the world have similar characteristics regardless of what corner of the world they come from. Of course there are every variety of street dogs as many mix with pure breeds and take on other breed characteristics.
It is a shame that the uniqueness and beauty of these dogs are more often than not lost to the majority of people in their native countries. Often times they are abused, neglected and considered un-pet worthy. Such a shame! ISDF hopes that the people in India and other countries around the world will take note of the value we place on these dogs in the US and other western countries and wake up! Here is an insightful article about the phenomena of desi street dogs abroad and features ISDF’s very own rescues Sheru and Roxy, not to mention Yoav Karny’s, (ISDF’s good friend) Coco and Rosie.