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Padmavathy (70 years old) and her husband (80 years old) are the face of the Chennai’s most reputed animal welfare organization, AWPT. This elderly couple have devoted their entire retired lives to the cause of animal welfare.
"In 1998, when we came to Santhoshapuram after my husband’s retirement, we witnessed the brutal killings of homeless stray dogs by Chennai’s corporation. They were being electrocuted or were being beaten to death because the residents didn’t want to deal with their increasing population. As both of us always had strong compassion towards animals, and had been working for them in some way or the other for about 20 years, we decided to set up a trust to start helping them" - Mrs. Padmavathy.
AWPT runs a hospital with the help of three doctors in the team, who treat sick and injured animals and also perform ABC surgeries
Godparents to 173 homeless abandoned animals
Right now, they have 85 dogs, 42 puppies, 11 new born kittens, and 35 adult cats. The animals are given the proper medical attention they need before they are given up for adoption of kept in the couple's home. Until recently, all these animals had a well-ventilated shelter home. However, it had to be closed to make way during some highway construction activities for widening the streets. Presently, all small animals live in couple’s home, while other animals are being sheltered in the house of one of the doctors who has volunteered to keep them.
Mortgaged their only house to cover the costs
With rising costs, the couple was left with few options to continue their work. They have mortgaged their home to continue supporting the animals that are dependent on them for survival.
How can you help?
The couple needs funds for its everyday's expenses. The funds raised will go towards the maintenance of the animal shelter. Every little contribution will help this elderly couple continue the brilliant work they do.Below is a breakdown of the monthly costs that is incurred by the couple and their team in protecting the animals.
Nature of Expense | Amount spent (per month) |
Building | |
Hospital Premises Rent | 5000 |
Electricity Bill | 800 |
Removal of Sewage water | 4800 |
Feeding (detailed break-up) | |
Milk Powder (30kg per month) | 6000 |
Milk Packets (10 litres per day) | 8700 |
Sugar (30 kg per month) | 1000 |
Vegetables, Greens and other Groceries for meals (Rs.1500 per day) | 45000 |
Eggs (Rs. 150 per day) | 4500 |
Rice | Covered by Donations |
Gas Cylinders (Rs. 420 per cylinder per week) | 1680 |
Non-Veg foods | 1500 |
Bread & Biscuits (Rs. 100 per day) | 3000 |
Vehicle | |
Fuel for Ambulance | 10000 |
Salary | |
For two Doctors Rs.10000 each | 20000 |
For maids and Workers (Rs.6000 * 4 workers) @ 4000 Each | 24000 |
Ambulance driver | 6000 |
Cleaning | |
Cleaning Materials incl Phenyl, bleaching powder etc | 1000 |
Medicines | |
Medicines for regular treatment | 15000 |
For ABC surgeries | 20000 |
Total | 177980 |
This story appeared in TheBetterIndia
