From calf to “Black Panther”: A story of care and tradition

A livestock rearer has described how he has cared for an animal affectionately named “Black Panther”, highlighting a long-standing personal commitment to animal husbandry carried out at home.

The owner while talking to Dialogue Pakistan said animal was initially acquired last year when it was approximately one year old. Since then, it has been reared with consistent care and attention, and is now over two years old.

According to the owner, the animal has been raised with dedication and affection, although he dismissed common assumptions that livestock of this kind are fed expensive supplements such as ghee, butter, almonds or pistachios.

Instead, he explained that the animal is primarily fed a traditional, locally sourced diet, including grains and fodder, with occasional milk and ghee depending on routine.

He added that the animal is bathed daily using shampoo suitable for livestock, stressing that proper hygiene is essential for maintaining health and appearance. Neglecting cleanliness, he said, can lead to illness and deterioration in condition.

The practice, he explained, is part of a broader passion that has continued for around eight to nine years. The animals are kept on the property's rooftop and cared for personally, without external assistance.

Feeding is carried out twice daily, with a mixed diet including grains, gram flour, porridge and green fodder prepared at home.

He noted that many people question the financial cost of maintaining such a hobby, but stated that he prefers staying engaged with his animals at home rather than spending time outside. He added that criticism from others does not influence his commitment.

The rearer explained that his involvement in livestock care dates back to childhood, when he used to raise goats. Having since achieved financial independence, he now continues the practice by purchasing calves annually and maintaining them as part of a long-term personal tradition.

He emphasised that this is not a short-term interest but a year-round commitment, with multiple animals from different years currently under his care.

He further explained that each animal is carefully selected based on breed quality and growth potential, noting that not all animals develop well regardless of feeding. Selection, he said, is based on careful assessment and experience.

Reflecting on the practice of sacrifice, he acknowledged the emotional difficulty involved, stating that forming a bond over an entire year makes the process deeply challenging. He added that the animal becomes like a member of the family, making separation emotionally difficult.