Fearless & Strong-willed, This Woman Is Building A Kinder World For Strays In Patiala

“People often tell me that this is a thankless job but when I see these animals get better and wag their tails at me, it looks like the biggest award. Yes, there are days when I am tired and I feel I won’t be able to continue but then I think about these innocent beings who have no one but me. This is now my life - I want to rescue many more animals and give them the life they deserve,” - Sushma Rathore, Founder, of Chopaya Jeev Raksha Foundation.  

Sushma's journey in animal welfare began at the tender age of 9 when she rescued her first motherless pup. Growing up, she witnessed her father and grandmother selflessly caring for injured creatures, instilling in her a deep love for animals. 

She is now a mother to hundreds of stray dogs who have lived a life of pain and torture 

A passionate animal lover, Sushma’s dream was to serve countless animals in need. In the year 2000, Sushma decided to turn her passion into a lifelong commitment. She took a bold step by mortgaging her family’s gold jewellery, securing a loan from her provident fund, and, against all odds, building the Chopaya Jeev Raksha Foundation. Today, she provides a haven for over 100 disabled and blind dogs, many of whom suffer from severe ailments. Sushma also feeds 400 dogs on the streets daily. 

“I couldn’t have been able to do this without the constant support of my mother who is now 70 yet doesn’t miss a single day in taking care of the dogs. She knows each of their medicines - be it for distemper, Parvo, or diabetes - and she single-handedly looks after them. My younger brother has also been a pillar of strength, he runs the family while I spend all my time caring for these furbabies.” 

Recalling some of the most challenging times, Sushma says that the COVID pandemic was particularly difficult when she was feeding thousands of strays without hardly any support. But even then she didn’t give up. Her determination and hard work are an inspiration to all. She works two part-time jobs to fund the expenses of her NGO but it is not enough. 

“The monthly expenses run in lakhs. Often we rescue animals who are in immediate need of surgery and we can’t afford to wait. It’s a real struggle at times and I wish more and more people joined me in my efforts…” 

A little kindness will go a long way - help Sushma today  

Over the years, Sushma has been a witness to heart-wrenching cases of animal cruelty and abandonment. Take Sultan, for instance, who was brutally beaten into a coma. Thanks to Sushma and her dedicated team, Sultan not only survived but recently celebrated his 4th birthday in the loving company of those who care for him. Sushma's dream is to help more animals like Sultan, offering a ray of hope in the small city of Patiala. And this is where you come in. 

“We are always in need of dog food, medicines, and hygiene products to ensure that the babies are well-fed and healthy. We also need help getting beds for dogs so that we can ensure they’re comfortable, warm and safe. The need is ever increasing and even a small donation can make a difference. I request all of you to please support me so that these innocent beings can live a happy and healthy life.”  

Support Sushma Rathore and Chopaya Jeev Raksha Foundation as they continue to be the voice for the voiceless - be a real hero.  

About the NGO: A passionate animal lover, Sushma Rathore grew up in a family where taking care of injured and voiceless beings was commonplace. Little Sushma knew she would want to follow in their footsteps and do something of her own for the strays. In the year 2000, Sushma decided to turn her passion into a lifelong commitment. She took a bold step by mortgaging her family’s gold jewellery, securing a loan from her provident fund, and, against all odds, building the Chopaya Jeev Raksha Foundation. Today she is taking care of hundreds of injured, sick, abandoned, and hungry strays in her area.