MADIKERI: When the landslides and floods hit, about 50 families — virtually the entire village — moved out of Udayagiri to safer areas. Their pets though, mostly dogs, were left behind. Now, veterinarians treating these dogs say they have slipped into depression since they haven’t seen their owners in more than a fortnight though they have managed to eat and sleep.The vets say every time a vehicle enters the village, the dogs rush and surround the vehicle, assuming their owners have returned. Although the dogs are being fed and cared for, they have slipped into depression. The scene is no different in Hebbattageri and many other areas where dozens of families have been forced to desert their pets.Five houses had collapsed in Udayagiri due to a slew of landslides and the other inhabitants moved to relief centres and relatives’ houses fearing more destruction. Since they all left in a hurry, none had time to take their pets along.Pets were left behind as families fled their houses after landslides hit Udayagiri“Some dogs were shifted to shelter homes, but others are still in the village,” said a vet. “We feed them every day and while they are physically healthy, they are depressed. All cattle and pet animals are being cared for. No deaths of wild animals have been reported.”Kishore Kumar, a resident of Udayagiri, said the dogs wait for their owners near the road side every day.“Residents visit the village every day to check on their properties,” Kumar said. “If a vehicle turns onto the village road from Mysuru-Somwarpet these pets virtually jump on them with excitement.”Locals say the dogs take shelter in one of the houses during the night or when it rains. “Those who visit the village to see their properties bring biscuits for the pets,” said B Suresh, a resident. “Food wise they are okay.” A family is what they are missing.

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