LAHORE: The Police Animal Rescue Centre (PARC) Lahore has generated a detailed report on the animal abuse and the protection of the animal rights saying it has rescued 1,379 animals, 50 of them from extreme cruelty, in two years.

The PARC was established as a pioneering institution in Lahore in 2023, making significant strides over the past year in rescuing and protecting animals from abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Since its inception, the PARC has safely relocated 1,130 animals to protection centres where they received proper care and treatment. These efforts have played a vital role in reducing animal suffering in urban settings.

Quoting the report, an official said the rescue centre has not only served as a shelter but also as a strong enforcement mechanism.

As per Police Animal Rescue Centre report, nine FIRs filed, 10 veterinary clinics, eight law firms registered

He said more than 50 cases of animal cruelty were identified and investigated, leading to the registration of nine first information reports, resulting in the incarceration of offenders—marking a major step in legal enforcement for animal rights.

To strengthen the protection of animals, 10 veterinary clinics and eight law firms have been registered to work in collaboration with the PARC.

Moreover, the official said, strategic partnerships have been formalised with three NGOs, as many shelter homes, and three government departments, creating a holistic ecosystem for animal welfare support.

These collaborations ensured that animals in distress not only receive medical attention but are also protected under the law, with legal assistance and care facilities readily available.

Understanding the importance of societal involvement, the PARC has trained 90 volunteers to become advocates for animal rights, the official said.

These volunteers play an essential role in field operations, education campaigns and public outreach.

Over the last year, more than 60 awareness sessions have been conducted to educate the public on animal rights, cruelty prevention, and responsible pet ownership.

The PARC operates under the supervision of senior police officers who conduct regular visits to the centre, ensuring its operational effectiveness and development.

Lahore Operations DIG Faisal Kamran issued directions to the PARC to ensure the moral and social responsibility as the core objective of the centre was to ensure animals receive protection and immediate help.

Equipped with mobile rescue teams and on-site veterinary services, he said, the PARC operates a 24/7 helpline (0319-2646257) through which citizens can report emergencies or instances of cruelty.

The mobile teams were trained to respond quickly to reports, providing care and transportation to injured or distressed animals.

He stressed upon the public’s cooperation to identify the elements violating animal rights.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2025