Shiva – especially in the avatar of Kal Bhairav – is believed to be the protector of dogs. He’s known as their “ishta dev” or deity sworn to protect them.
According to ancient belief, when Bhairav was asked by a learned sage as to why he has a canine companion, the god replies, “Only he who recognises and treats Shiva and Shvan (dog) as one, is a truly wise human worth my blessings.”
Kal Bhairav, the one who marks the end of a living being’s time, is also believed to be a bookkeeper. He records the good or sin humans have committed and settles their score by either sending them to heaven or hell. Stories have been told of his wrath against those who ill-treat a life weaker than them.
So who better to protect VOSD and our dogs better than Kal Bhairav and his canine companion? This belief set in motion the construction of the Bhairav Mandir (temple) that currently stands at the entrance of our premises. It was consecrated on 13th September, 2018. Watch as Rakesh Shukla, VOSD’s founder and father to thousands of dogs, narrates how Shiva guided him to help these babies.
VOSD is India’s largest non-profit organisation for dogs. Over 20,000 dogs have been rescued by us over a decade and we admit 300-400 dogs to the VOSD Sanctuary & Hospital annually. We provide the most sophisticated and expensive medical care & rehabilitation services at no cost to stray dogs and abandoned pet dogs. VOSD is a dog’s best friend. To know more about us and support our work, visit: https://vosd.in