In our quest to build NEPA’s most comprehensive nonprofit directory, we discovered hundreds of incredible organizations. We’re eager to share their inspiring stories.
In this series, we spotlight hardworking organizations, dedicated volunteers, and compassionate individuals who make a difference. We hope these stories inspire you to join us with your time, hands, and hearts. Follow along as we delve beyond the mission statement.
A “Heaven on Earth” for Rescued Farm Animals
Tucked away in the scenic countryside of Dalton, Indraloka Animal Sanctuary cares for around 200 farm animals, each with their own unique story of healing and hope. Home to alpacas, cows, pigs, horses, goats, sheep, chickens and others, the sanctuary provides a permanent, peaceful refuge for farm animals that have faced severe abuse, neglect and hardships.
The name “Indraloka,” a Sanskrit word meaning “heaven of the gods,” is fitting for a place where animals are given the chance to heal, grow and enjoy life in an environment full of kindness and care.
Founded in 2005 by Indra Lahiri, a psychologist certified in traumatic stress studies, the sanctuary’s mission goes beyond animal rescue. It also hopes to inspire people to reconnect with nature and embrace kindness and empathy toward all living beings, human and animal alike. Indraloka’s vision is to encourage a nurturing environment where humans and animals can heal, learn, grow and play, reconnecting with nature, rescued farm animals and themselves.
The Mission: Every Life Is Sacred
At the heart of Indraloka’s mission is compassion for all.
Every life is valued at Indraloka, where farm animals are not only rescued but also respected. The sanctuary offers lifetime care to these animals, many of whom were saved from situations of exploitation and abandonment. When Lahiri first began rescuing animals, she realized that while traditional shelters focused on dogs and cats, farm animals lacked similar advocates. Her vision for Indraloka was to create a sanctuary that would protect these often-overlooked animals, providing them with a safe and loving home.
“I’ve been rescuing animals all my life,” recalls Indra. “As early as I could walk, I was finding little hurt animals, picking them up and bringing them home.”
She began focusing on saving farm animals in the late ’90s when she joined a horse rescue group. While retrieving a horse, they discovered a pig in the barn. No one knew what to do and Lahiri was shocked when some members of the group joked about eating it.
“I didn’t see what the difference was. Why would we rescue a horse and kill a pig?” she said.
Lahiri realized that farm animals desperately needed a voice. She took the pig home that day and continued rescuing and caring for at-risk farm animals in her home in Bucks County. However, she needed more space to keep saving lives.
She purchased a 30-acre property in Mehoopany, Wyoming County, which served as the original location for Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, but the sanctuary needed more space and accessibility. In 2020, they found the perfect spot at a 100-acre farm in Dalton. Located just 15 minutes from Scranton, it’s easy to reach while still providing a quiet countryside setting for the animals.
“I’ve been rescuing animals all my life,” recalls Indra. “As early as I could walk, I was finding little hurt animals, picking them up and bringing them home.”
Every Animal Has a Name and a Story
Meet the Animals
Every animal at Indraloka has a unique story, often one of resilience and survival against overwhelming odds, having faced abuse, neglect, hoarding and more. From pigs and cows to horses, chickens, and even alpacas, each resident has found a second chance at life at Indraloka.
One unforgettable resident is Eddie Traffic, a pig who escaped from a truck on Interstate 80. With a daring leap to freedom, Eddie found his way to Indraloka, where he now lives safely in the company of other pigs. Similarly, Sandy the alpaca’s journey to the sanctuary is remarkable. Rescued from critical conditions, she required intensive, round-the-clock care to regain her strength. Now, she enjoys the company of her friends at Indraloka, a testament to the sanctuary’s unwavering commitment to healing and rehabilitation.
The stories of these animals—and so many more—show just how heartwarming Indraloka’s approach to care really is. Here, it’s not just about saving lives; it’s about truly cherishing and respecting each one.
Care and Community Connection
Indraloka’s impact reaches far beyond animal rescue.
Education and community engagement are vital to Indraloka’s mission of supporting both farm animals and people. One way they do this is through the NEPA Rescue Veterinary Clinic, which provides discounted veterinary services to shelters, rescues and low-income households, ensuring that high-quality care is accessible to those who need it most.
Indraloka also prioritizes youth education with their Compassion Classroom, where students learn STEM skills alongside life skills, empathy and emotional resilience. This initiative is designed to support diverse groups, including those with special needs or facing challenges.
For those who can’t visit the sanctuary in person, the Animal Pen Pal Program offers a unique way to connect with its furry residents. Participants, including individuals or teachers and their classrooms, will receive updates, photos and stories about their chosen animals.
Additionally, Indraloka encourages group visits and field trips, inviting people to experience the sanctuary firsthand and provides an opportunity to interact with the animals, hear their stories of resilience and recovery, and gain a deeper understanding of the compassionate work being done at Indraloka.
Ways To Make An Impact
Indraloka’s mission relies on the generosity of its supporters.
Indraloka’s work would not be possible without the support of the community. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering your time to making a donation to fund ongoing animal care. Volunteers are essential to the sanctuary’s day-to-day operations, helping with everything from animal feeding to grounds maintenance.
- Sponsor an Animal: Sponsorship provides a direct way to impact an animal’s life, covering the costs of food, shelter and medical care.
- Donate or Volunteer: Monetary donations help Indraloka sustain and expand its efforts, from animal rescue to veterinary care. Volunteers play a crucial role in day-to-day operations, assisting with animal care, grounds maintenance and more.
- Shop Indraloka’s Wishlist: You can make a real impact by checking out Indraloka’s Wishlist. From feed and bedding to enrichment supplies, every contribution will directly support a furry farm friend.
ThanksLiving Celebration
Support Indraloka’s largest fundraiser of the year.
Indraloka’s annual ThanksLiving fundraiser is a special event that brings together humans and animals for a memorable Thanksgiving feast—all in support of rescued farm animals. The day begins with the sanctuary’s birds taking center stage, enjoying a spread of fresh produce and getting the royal treatment. Guests of all ages help serve them their Thanksgiving meal, making it a fun and interactive experience.
After the birds are fed, Chef Sara Liu from Parlor City Vegan treats everyone to a delicious, plant-based meal inspired by the holiday. As Indraloka’s biggest annual fundraiser, ThanksLiving not only celebrates the joys of plant-based eating but also raises essential support for animal rescue and care at the sanctuary.
Indraloka Animal Sanctuary is open to visitors by appointment, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the animals and learn more about their mission. Visit their website for information on programming, volunteering and donating.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 07/02/2020.
