Editorial Note: This is part of a series that profiles the recipients of Lady Freethinker’s Urgent Need Fund 2024 grant program. The program was created to support nonprofit organizations involved in animal rescue and care, and those that promote better treatment of animals. If you’re interested in learning more about the program, click here.
Tree of Life for Animals (TOLFA) is a charity with an animal hospital and shelter in a rural area of Rajasthan, India. They operate three vehicles from 8 am until 11 pm, treating and rescuing street animals — primarily dogs, cows, and cats but also donkeys and camels— in Pushkar, Ajmer, and other nearby villages. TOLFA returns rehabilitated animals to where they were found once healthy, and offer sanctuary to rescued animals who may have trouble surviving on their own.
TOLFA also provides sterilizations and rabies vaccinations, teaches children about rabies prevention and animal welfare, and hires many locals who have faced discrimination because of their low-caste status.

Poppy (Courtesy of TOLFA)
Clara Nowak, TOLFA’s UK Manager, is clearly proud to be part of this organization.
“The sense of community and shared purpose at TOLFA is something truly special, fostering an environment where everyone, from staff to animals, is treated with compassion and respect,” Nowak told Lady Freethinker. “Each visit to India renews my dedication, as I witness firsthand the incredible impact of our work — seeing once-suffering animals now thriving and knowing that our efforts have contributed to their recovery and happiness.”
One notable success story is that of Poppy, a dog whose leg was completely shattered when she was hit by a car. When she was brought to TOLFA’s hospital, staff discovered that they would have to amputate her leg, but they also found she had canine distemper, which she would need to overcome before they could perform the surgery. On top of this, Poppy was very fearful of her new environment and wouldn’t let anyone get close to her.
With dedicated care from the staff, she gradually recovered from her illness, enabling them to perform the surgery. The tenacity she exhibited while learning to walk again was truly remarkable. During her recovery, Poppy also encountered a supportive cat named Tippy Toes, who became her steadfast companion in the healing journey.

Tippy Toes & Poppy (Courtesy of TOLFA)
Poppy is now thriving at TOLFA and will continue to reside there, where she is surrounded by affection, security, and attentive care, alongside her closest companion, Tippy Toes.
“Her journey is a testament to the strength of the spirit and the difference compassion can make,” Nowak told us.
With the help of our generous supporters, Lady Freethinker awarded TOLFA a $10,000 grant that will go toward its Rescue and Care Project, which treats and rescues more than 1,000 street animals every month.
We are very grateful for each of our supporters who have enabled us to help street animals in India live healthier, longer, and fuller lives.
To learn more about TOLFA, please visit their website.