In the heart of Singapore’s bustling Sungei Tengah Road, The Animal Lodge stands as a sanctuary for abandoned furry companions, managed by the Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD) organization. This remarkable shelter currently houses over 50 rescue dogs, each with their own unique story. Among the dedicated staff, two caretakers, Kamruzzaman, known as Babu, and Miah Nayem from Bangladesh, play an integral role in nurturing and rehabilitating these vulnerable creatures.

A Passion for Dogs

Kamruzzaman, 44, has been part of the SOSD family for an impressive eleven years, having been introduced to the organization by his brother-in-law. Growing up with dogs in Bangladesh, he found his calling in this environment. "I love all animals, especially dogs. I believe they love me back," he enthusiastically shares.

On the other hand, 27-year-old Nayem found his way to SOSD five years ago after a construction job in Singapore closed. Thanks to the Ministry of Manpower, he discovered a fulfilling role at the shelter. "I’ve always liked dogs. Playing with them truly brings me joy."

Daily Dedication

Their days start with early prayers at 5 AM, and by 8:30 AM, they are already hard at work, cleaning dog enclosures and preparing meals. The duo’s responsibilities include administering medical care to dogs that require it and ensuring the kennels are clean and safe. On days when new dogs arrive, they assist in preparing them for quarantine and work closely with veterinarians to understand each dog's specific needs.

Living on-site, Babu and Nayem are available around the clock, providing constant attention to the animals. Even after their official shift ends at 6 PM, they frequently remain close to the kennels, ready to respond to any situation.

A Unique Culinary Experience

Despite their challenging work, the caretakers find solace in cooking. They take turns preparing traditional Bangladeshi dishes, bringing a taste of home to the shelter. Their culinary creations may vary based on their moods, but they always enjoy sharing meals together, exchanging laughter amid the responsibilities.

Triumphs and Trials

While joy fills their days, challenges abound. Rescue dogs often arrive with trauma from abuse or abandonment. Nayem recounted a harrowing experience with a dog named Cosmo, who, startled by a car horn, bit his hand, requiring surgery. Babu endured a similar incident with an injured dog, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of working with animals in distress.

Despite the pain and challenges, both caretakers express an unwavering love for the dogs — even the "naughty" ones who keep them on their toes. They acknowledge that, while difficult moments arise, their affection for the animals makes it all worthwhile.

The Bittersweet Nature of Caregiving

The most poignant aspect of their job is saying goodbye. While they rejoice when dogs find loving homes through adoption or fostering, the heartbreak of seeing dogs returned to the shelter is a tough pill to swallow. "We feel very upset," Babu explains. "But when new rescue dogs arrive, we pour our love into caring for them once again."

Additionally, the emotional toll of losing dogs to illness or old age weighs heavily on their hearts. Babu recalls a racing champion dog that unexpectedly passed away, leaving them in profound sorrow.

Building Lasting Bonds

Despite the hardships, the bond between Babu and Nayem has deepened through their shared experiences. Facilities like SOSD thrive on the strength of their community, which includes a roster of dedicated volunteers who help with care and enrichment. The two caretakers find joy in this collaboration, as volunteers not only lend a hand but also bring companionship to both them and the dogs.

Their manager, Kieran Kua, expresses gratitude, noting, "Babu and Nayem are the backbone of our shelter." This bond is mutual, as Kua goes above and beyond to support their well-being, ensuring they receive necessary medical care and facilitating their trips back to Bangladesh.

A Family Beyond Work

As Babu and Nayem reflect on their journey, they emphasize a sense of family that has developed between them. Their connection gives them strength to face the emotional challenges, whether navigating tough days or celebrating the successes of their beloved canine companions. Nayem succinctly puts it: "We do not feel like this is friendship. It's family."

As they continue their vital work at SOSD, Babu and Nayem remind us of the compassion and dedication required in animal rescue. Their story is an inspiring testament to the power of love, commitment, and community in creating a better world for our four-legged friends.