Youth Organization in Defense of Animals (YODA)

YODA operates the R3 Program (Rescue, Rehab, Release or Rehome) in response to the concerning number of abandoned and injured animals found on the streets of Mumbai Navi Mumbai & Thane each month. To tackle this issue, the organisation launched awareness campaigns to educate the public on how to respond when encountering distressed stray animals. In 2017, a shelter was established in Khar West, Mumbai, equipped with top-notch medical and behavioural rehabilitation services, overseen by a team of expert veterinarians and behaviourists. The R3 program ensures swift and efficient rehabilitation for each animal, with the goal of either releasing them back into their natural habitat or finding suitable forever homes within 25 days. Thorough medical care is provided, and a post-treatment evaluation determines the most appropriate outcome for each animal based on their circumstances.

YODA runs a highly successful animal adoption programme known as R2. Every month, more than 150 infant puppies and kittens are left orphaned in Maharashtra. To address this issue, YODA trains families to rear these young animals until they are ready for adoption. The organisation has established a vast network of over 100 foster families who have undergone specialized training for the rearing programme. YODA maintains a stringent and efficient adoption process, including interviews, interactions, and inspections, to ensure that each infant finds a suitable family capable of meeting all its needs. As a result of these efforts, YODA successfully facilitates the adoption of over 100 animals each month.

YODA operates the OPD Program, offering free-of-cost services to homeless animals six days a week. The programme is staffed by two senior vets and five rotating trainee vets who provide consultations, medications, and surgical treatments. YODA attends to over 500 animals every month through this initiative.

In the area of Behavioural Rehabilitation, YODA focuses on aiding mentally distressed animals that enter the shelter. A team of five or more behavioural experts diligently engage with these animals, gradually building trust and a sense of ease in their interactions with humans. Through patient and compassionate efforts, the organisation aims to improve the mental well-being of these animals and prepare them for potential adoption or safe release, contributing to their overall welfare.

YODA runs the ABC Programme to address the growing issue of stray dogs in Mumbai, which poses a significant risk of rabies. With over 1 Lakh stray dogs in the city and approximately 20,000 deaths annually in India from rabies caused by stray dog bites, it is committed to taking action. Each month, the organisation utilizes advanced medical laparoscopic technology to efficiently vaccinate and sterilize more than 100 dogs and cats. This process is not only quick but also minimizes discomfort, ensuring the safety and well-being of both male and female animals. By implementing this programme, YODA aims to reduce the number of stray and rabid animals, making a positive impact on the city and its residents.