This family is giving a second chance to stray animals

Full story: 

In a quiet corner of Pune, a sanctuary for abandoned and injured animals has been steadily growing, thanks to the relentless efforts of Suvarna Pasare and her family. The NGO, which now cares for over 500 dogs, 25 cats, and 10 birds, began with a simple act of compassion in 2009 when Suvarna and her husband, Arun, started taking in stray dogs at their home.

Suvarna, a trained physiotherapist with a background in naturopathy, had spent years treating human patients suffering from paralysis. But she couldn't ignore the plight of animals who, unlike humans, had no hospitals or facilities to turn to when in need. "Humans have all the facilities, but animals are often left to fend for themselves" Suvarna shares with ImpactStories.in. This realization sparked a passion in Suvarna that would soon turn into a full-time mission.

Initially, the couple started with just a few dogs, providing them with food, shelter, and medical care. However, as word spread, more animals began to arrive, and the couple found themselves in need of more space. Their first significant challenge came in 2009 when, after housing several dogs, they faced opposition from their neighbors, who filed a police case and issued threats. Forced to leave their home in the middle of the night, Suvarna and Arun moved to a temporary location with 12-13 dogs. But the community’s compassion shone through when few kind-hearted individuals helped them establish a makeshift shelter, allowing them to care for over 150 dogs.

The Pasare family's journey wasn't easy, but their love for animals kept them going. "When you care for and help these animals recover, the love you get back is something you have to feel to understand" Suvarna recalls. Over time, the NGO officially registered in 2016, and the number of animals they cared for grew exponentially. Suvarna's expertise in naturopathy became invaluable, especially in treating dogs with cancer and paralysis, helping them live longer and more comfortable lives.

 "When you care for and help these animals recover, the love you get back is something you have to feel to understand.” - Suvarna Pasare.

Arun, who had experience in pharmacy, played a crucial role in administering the right medicines, while their son Mayur, also an animal lover, joined the cause. Together, they have created a sanctuary where animals receive not just care but also affection and dignity in their final days.

The NGO’s impact is not limited to rescue and rehabilitation. They have also made significant strides in controlling the stray dog population in areas like Bhavdhan and Bhosale Nagar in Pune. These areas once saw a rise in stray dog incidents, leading to cases of poisoning and killings. The NGO's intervention has not only saved countless dogs but also made the neighborhoods safer.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world came to a standstill, Suvarna and her team continued their work. They rescued 100 dogs left abandoned as their owners were isolated or had passed away. "While the rest of the country was closed, we made sure these dogs were taken care of" Suvarna recalls with ImpactStories.in. Some dogs were returned to their owners post-pandemic, while others remain in the shelter, their owners having succumbed to the virus.

Their tireless efforts were recognized in 2021 by the Indo-UK Cultural Forum, an honor that acknowledged the significant impact the NGO has made in animal welfare. Despite this recognition, the challenges they face remain daunting.

The NGO currently operates out of a rented space that houses over 500 animals. However, their lease is ending soon, and they must find a new location—a daunting task given the number of animals they care for. "Relocating is stressful for the animals," Suvarna says. "We need at least one acre of land to build a permanent facility, including a 24-hour hospital for animals."

Funding is another pressing issue. Despite being CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) approved for three years, they have yet to receive support from corporate companies. The costs of surgeries and daily care for such a large number of animals are immense, and donations are crucial for their survival. "There are times when we can only afford to feed the dogs once a day" Suvarna admits. The cost of surgeries can range from 25,000 to 2.5 lakh rupees, adding to their financial burden.

Looking ahead, Suvarna's vision for the NGO is clear: to establish a 24-hour hospital dedicated to animals in a permanent location where they can provide even more comprehensive care. Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful that with continued support, they can achieve this goal and expand their impact.

‍Through their indomitable spirit and boundless compassion, the Pasare family has created a haven for countless animals, offering them not just a second chance at life, but a chance to experience love and care.