Dhara Shailesh Patel
Dhara Shailesh Patel (born 24 February 2006) is an Indian-origin veterinary student, animal rights volunteer, and certified reptile handler currently based in the United States. She is pursuing Pre-Veterinary Medicine at the University of Delaware and is known for her early contributions to animal rescue, education, and public awareness campaigns.
Dhara Shailesh Patel 
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| Born | 24 February 2006, Ahmedabad, India |
| Hometown | Dharmaj, Gujarat, India |
| Residence | Newark, USA |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education |
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| Occupation | Student, Reptile Rescuer, Volunteer |
| Known for | Reptile rescue, Animal welfare, Indian classical music |
| Parents |
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| Relatives | Dhrumil Shailesh Patel (brother – supervisor, Canada) |
| Certifications |
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| Music | Visharad in Harmonium – Gandharva Mahavidyalaya |
| Awards & Features |
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| Affiliations |
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| Future Goals | To work in exotic animal medicine and set up an international rescue facility |
| Online Presence | |
Early Life and Education
Dhara was born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and raised in the village of Dharmaj. She attended Vatsalya International School (CBSE), Borsad, focusing on science education. Inspired by her family background — her mother, a veterinary professional, and her father, a businessman — Dhara developed a deep interest in animal welfare and community service from a young age.
She currently resides in Newark, Delaware as she pursues higher education in veterinary sciences.
Veterinary Certifications
Driven by her commitment to ethical animal care, Dhara has acquired several industry-recognized certifications:
AAHA Credentials
- Nutrition Champion Certificate (2025–2029): Communicating animal-specific dietary needs.
- Pain Management Champion (2025–2027): Focus on acute and chronic pain relief in cats and dogs.
- Canine Vaccination Champion (2025–2029): Focus on immunization schedules and protocols.
- Feline Vaccine Customization (Issued 2025): Incorporating titer results and custom vaccine plans.
Other Learning
- First Aid for Animals – Through Udemy, covering emergency handling techniques.
- Emotional Support Animal & Healing Course – Studying emotional interdependence of humans and pets.
Music and Cultural Training
In addition to animal work, Dhara holds a Visharad in Harmonium from the Gandharva Mahavidyalaya. She actively performs in cultural functions and religious events, showcasing her dedication to traditional Indian music.
Awards and Recognition
- Recipient of the APJ Abdul Kalam Photography Award for wildlife capture.
- Profiled by leading Gujarati daily Divya Bhaskar for her youth activism in animal rescue.
- Regular contributor to initiatives such as Anand Animal Helpline, Dhunn – The Petting Farm, and DAYA Foundation.
Future Aspirations
Dhara Patel aims to become a specialized exotic animal veterinarian, with a focus on reptiles and wildlife. Her long-term mission is to integrate science, compassion, and sustainability into animal care both in the U.S. and India.