The problem StrayCare solves

Stray dogs are a significant problem in India, with an estimated population of around 30 million. These dogs are often neglected and left to fend for themselves, leading to a range of health and behavioral issues. These dogs can pose a variety of issues, including the risk of rabies and the lack of proper care.

According to a survey conducted in 2020 by the National Institute of Animal Welfare, there are around 69,000 stray dogs in Delhi alone. Similarly, in Mumbai, there are around 95,000 stray dogs, according to a survey conducted in 2015. These numbers illustrate the magnitude of the problem and the need for effective solutions.

• Lack of proper food and shelter: Another issue with stray dogs in India is the problem of no care. These animals often lack access to proper food, water, and shelter, and they are vulnerable to a range of health issues and diseases. Additionally, stray dogs may pose a threat to public safety by attacking people, particularly children.

• Risk of rabies: Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected animal, such as a dog. In India, around 17.4 million people are bitten by dogs each year, with over 20,000 deaths due to rabies annually. Stray dogs are a significant contributor to these statistics, as they are more likely to carry the virus due to their lack of vaccinations and medical care.

Challenges I ran into

When working on the StrayCare project, I encountered several challenges that tested both my technical skills and design sensibilities.

• One of the primary hurdles was creating an intuitive and user-friendly UI that effectively addressed the needs of pet owners and stray animal caretakers. Balancing simplicity with functionality was crucial, especially when integrating complex features like real-time Google Maps services for vet searches.

• Another challenge was implementing a robust real-time database and user authentication system using Firebase Firestore and Firebase Auth. Ensuring that the app provided seamless and secure interactions required careful consideration of both backend performance and user privacy. Additionally, conducting user research and creating empathy maps posed its own set of difficulties, as understanding the diverse needs of potential users—ranging from tech-savvy individuals to those less familiar with mobile apps—was essential to designing a solution that was both effective and accessible.

• Finally, the integration of multiple technologies, including the Picasso library for image loading and Google Maps services, required meticulous coordination to ensure all components worked harmoniously together. Overcoming these challenges not only enhanced my technical abilities but also deepened my understanding of how to create meaningful and impactful user experiences.