20 August,2013 01:39 AM IST | | Neha LM Tripathi
Taking baby steps toward her ambition, Daya, a Std II student, is going to bring in her birthday in a unique fashion this year. She has asked her friends not to bring any gifts to her party, but to instead make donations, monetary or otherwise, to benefit animals being treated at the Bombay Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) Hospital (Parel). The hospital welcomes donations in the form of money, or even other things, for its animals.
"We want the hospital authority to utilise the donations in the best way they can. We are collecting cheques from Daya's friends, however, any sort of donation like cat or dog food is also welcome", said Ramya, Daya's mother.
Talking about her dream of becoming a veterinarian, the girl said, "I used to wonder why so many people aim to become doctors treating human beings and so few want to treat animals. I want to be unique and serve animals."
She added, "Last year, when I was on my way to a friend's place I realised that there are indeed separate hospitals for animals. This is when I decided to make a donation to the hospital so that they can take better care of the animals."
However, this is not the first time that Daya is celebrating her birthday differently from other children her age. On her last birthday, she had an eco-friendly, âno plastic' celebration.
Lt Colonel (Dr) JC Khanna, secretary of BSPCA, said, "Donations are always welcome at our hospital. This child is very fond of animals and wants to do something for their betterment along with her friends. I am happy the city has children who love animals unconditionally and enjoy their existence." u00a0