Thousands of kids all over the planet are joining PETA’s
army of animal advocates – and here is where we shine
the spotlight on their hard work. Hey, kids, we know you do
good deeds because you care about animals, but it is OK to brag
a little about the ways you are making the world a better place
for our animal friends. Tell us how YOU help animals, and you
could be our featured Superstar of the Month!
Thirteen-year-old Prachi Panvalkar studies in the eighth standard in Baroda. An ardent animal lover, Prachi does her part to help animals in distress. She always keeps her eyes and ears open for animals who need care and attention.
One day, on her way home from school, Prachi found a squirrel on the road who was covered in dust and trembling in terror. Prachi looked around for a tree that he could have fallen from, but she was unable to find one and took him home. She sought the help of a veterinarian, who said the squirrel, a baby, was fine. Prachi made a makeshift bed for Cheenu, as she named him, from a basket and cotton and fed him with the help of a dropper.
Cheenu stayed with Prachi for 13 days and made himself feel right at home. He waited for Prachi to come home from school, when he would run towards her and sit on her head. When Cheenu was able to eat on his own, Prachi took him to her terrace and started leaving him there in a large cage so that other squirrels could see him. After a while, she started to leave the cage door open on the terrace so that the other squirrels could meet Cheenu. When she felt he was ready – and although it broke her heart – she let him go. Cheenu came back to visit her on the terrace the very next day. Now, whenever Prachi sees a squirrel, she always thinks of Cheenu.
You can help animals too! If you see an animal in distress, never give up. Remember, animals cannot help themselves – they are dependent on you.
