YODA began as a small group of four passionate friends who could no longer turn a blind eye to the unimaginable cruelty and neglect animals were suffering. The heart-wrenching abuse, the complete disregard for their lives, and the lack of basic care were too much to bear. What started as a shared dream fueled by compassion and purpose, soon blossomed into a movement that touched the hearts of many, attracting supporters who believed that every small step taken in the right direction mattered. Today, YODA stands as a beacon of hope for animal welfare in the city, and with plans to expand, it continues to inspire others to fight for the voiceless creatures that rely on our compassion.
Pooja Sakpal, the Co-founder of YODA, has seen the evolution of this dream firsthand. As she shares her story, her voice is filled with unwavering conviction: “We just couldn’t shut our eyes to the cruelty happening around us.” Her words are punctuated by the presence of Wolf – a one-eyed, gentle soul she lovingly calls her "pirate" – who quietly joins the interview. Pooja's eyes soften as she gestures toward him. “There are so many like him. Animals suffering from cancer, abandoned on the streets by their owners, neglected and forgotten by those they trusted.”
With each animal, there’s a story, and each story is one of heartbreak, but also hope. She points to a Labrador nearby, its once vibrant coat dulled by neglect. “She was left tied to a pole. We searched for her owners, but they were nowhere to be found. The cruelty some animals face is beyond comprehension.” These are not just rescue stories; they are tales of survival, resilience, and the unconditional love that animals offer despite their pasts.
YODA stands strong in its mission to challenge the cruel practices of breeders who exploit female dogs, using them to produce endless litters until their bodies can no longer bear the strain. Pooja is firm in her stance: “In India, we need radical change. The laws must be so stringent that people can no longer escape accountability for such heinous acts. These are crimes that are too difficult to even talk about, and yet they happen every single day.”
The sanctuary at YODA is a haven for these animals. Each one is given a second chance to heal, both physically and emotionally. “We’ve had dogs that we treated who’ve come back to us after we dropped them at their location. Animals are simple like that. Once they form a bond, they want nothing more than to stay by your side. It’s pure, it’s unconditional.”
The mission of YODA goes beyond rescue. It’s about education and empowerment. The organization has become a place where young people, driven by compassion, have found their calling. These young changemakers are given the tools to make a difference, and in turn, they inspire others to do the same. YODA’s staff is vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive, creating a supportive environment where both animals and people can thrive. It’s a place where passion for animal welfare is nurtured, and the spirit of kindness is passed on from one generation to the next.
Yet, despite the incredible work they do, Pooja remains humble. “We don’t believe in praising ourselves. Our goal is simple. If one day we don’t need to exist because people are educated about animal welfare and the rights of these animals are upheld, that would be the greatest success we could ever achieve.” She pauses, her voice softening. “We’d be out of a job, but what a wonderful day that would be.”
YODA’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion, the strength of community, and the difference one small group of individuals can make in the lives of countless animals. It’s not just about rescuing animals from suffering; it’s about creating a world where such suffering no longer exists. And while that world is still a long way off, YODA continues to make strides, one step, one rescue, one life at a time.