MARGAO: Rudy Alvares is a youth unlike most his age, with a heart that beats in rhythm with the animal kingdom. This 24-year-old from Sangolda has dedicated his life to the well-being and care of all creatures, great and small. From his earliest days, when the first word he uttered was not ‘maa’ or ‘papa’, but “baa”, directed at a chicken, his fixation with pet and farm animals has been a constant source of worry and trouble to his family, and amusement to his neighbours. From a childhood fascination, however, the affable Rudy has now taken on the role of guardian angel for injured and abandoned animals, proving his mettle as a kind, compassionate and valuable member of society.
When other boys gravitated towards toy cars, guns and sports, young Rudy found solace in the company of chickens, dogs, and any creature that crawled or moved.
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His passion for animals often led him astray from his studies, much to the dismay of his mother. In Mapusa market, he would eagerly spend his pocket money on chickens, often getting scolded and spanked by his mother for neglecting his education.
Undeterred by his parents’ disapproval, Rudy would bring injured and abandoned animals home- even squirrels, piglets and wild birds, nurturing them back to health while still attending primary school. “I was considered a mischievous, unruly kid in primary school, but managed to win over my teachers by bringing them country eggs from the hens I reared,” he chuckles. “My aunt, Rosy Alvares, a prominent figure in the local tiatr community, became my sanctuary. She shielded me from scoldings and supported and sheltered me during challenging times,” he says, brimming with anecdotes of how he often ran away from home, or during outings with his parents, to play with orphaned animals he spotted along the way.
After graduating in commerce from St Xavier’s College, he pursued a veterinary assistant course from the International Animal Rescue Centre at Assagao, despite facing resistance at home. Rudy’s passion persisted throughout his academic journey, which led him to explore various disciplines, including courses on goat-rearing, piggery management and other animal-related fields.
People in need knew they could rely on him, day or night, when their pets or stray animals required assistance. Rudy became the go-to person for wounded animals, offering his expertise and guidance at all odd times, when others failed to answer SOS calls. Senior citizens in need of support often reach out to him for guidance. Rudy willingly spends time with
animal owners, offering advice and rescuing distressed stray pups,
squirrels, and kittens, finding them loving homes.
Over the years, Rudy expanded his menagerie to include an array of animals. From the highly-prized ‘Aseel’ to ‘Frizzled feathers’ and ‘naked neck’ breeds of hens, along with turkeys, guinea fowl, Manila ducks, and furry giant rabbits, Rudy bred and cared for these magnificent creatures which later returned his kindness by providing him with eggs and a livelihood. Selling eggs and diligently maintaining all the animals, his farm became a sanctuary of love and nurturing.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, when many faced isolation and uncertainty, Rudy says he found solace in the companionship of his feathered and furry friends. The birds, especially the black Kadaknath chickens renowned for their medicinal properties, played a crucial role in providing sustenance and comfort for Rudy and his family.
