Safe Haven tells the story of two CUA alumnae who are providing shelter to animals in the peaceful Pennsylvania setting of the Indraloka Animal Sanctuary. We hope you enjoyed reading about founder Indra Lahiri and architect Kate O'Connor.
To get the cover story for the summer 2012 edition of The Catholic University of America Magazine , associate editor Lisa Carroll and University photographer Ed Pfueller spent a sunny spring day at the sanctuary last May. Here they share their thoughts on what both called an "unforgettable" experience.
What was your first impression when you arrived? Was the sanctuary what you expected?
Lisa: When we were driving to the sanctuary, a thick fog had enveloped the area. I was a little concerned that it would make taking pictures difficult that morning. But as we drove along a rough, winding path up to the sanctuary, the fog lifted somewhat and the sun began to peak out. As soon as we pulled up, cats began approaching us from all directions. When we got out of the car, I heard a "meow" behind me and found one cat inspecting us from a tree.
The first thing that struck me was how peaceful it was. It was a place where you could really take in the scenery and nature without a lot of the distractions and sounds we're used to in the city. There were lovely green hills and a creek that ran along the edge of the property. Then I was struck by the people. Indra and her volunteers work exceptionally hard and they do it with a lot of joy.
Ed: My first impression of the animal sanctuary besides the beauty of the setting was how happy all the animals seemed. I've been to a lot of farms and it was apparent immediately that this was something very different. The animals were all very curious with us and each other and exhibited a peacefulness that I think comes from a lack of fear. I've also been to several other animal sanctuaries before and was expecting a lot of hard luck cases or unwanted animals that could not be rehabilitated or brought into live with the other animals. Most of the animals at Indraloka seem to live in perfect harmony no matter the species or tragic backgrounds. I think that makes the place unique.
Did you have a favorite animal?
Lisa: We certainly spent a lot of time with Duncan and Nugget, the two large pigs mentioned in the story. Although they're very strong animals, they were quite gentle. It seemed that the pigs even recognized Kate O'Connor and Bart Bajda when they visited to see the pigs move into their new house. Bart found the one spot behind the pigs' ears to scratch that made them tip over on their sides and soak up the attention. One of the pigs thought it might be fun to find out what some of Ed's camera equipment tasted like. He must not have liked it too much since he spit it back out.
Near the end of the day we followed Indra over to a barn that houses some of the cats, goats, and horses. As we were walking, a black and white cat came running up to me. It was unusual for her to approach people, Indra told me. This cat must have had a hunch. I told Indra that black and white cats were sacred in my family as we had two very special tuxedo cats when I was growing up and I have one of my own today.
"She knew!" Indra told me.
After spending the day observing, interviewing, and photographing Indra, can you name a quality of hers that you believe helps make Indraloka successful?
Lisa: Indra has a lot of qualities that make Indraloka successful, but perhaps the most important ones are her kindness and work ethic. Certainly Indraloka wouldn't exist if she didn't have both those qualities. She exudes warmth to animals and humans alike. I think that's helped her attract so many volunteers.
Ed: Indra's views on death and suffering were especially powerful. She spends the animal's final moments in their presence and expresses the beauty of those moments. Unlike others who try to help those in need she does not overreach and try to save everybody beyond her means at the detriment of the animals. Much like the poem about the starfish on the beach she takes the time and effort to help each animal personally because it makes a difference to them.
Do you have a favorite photo or photos from the day?
Lisa: It's almost impossible to pick a favorite because Ed took so many great photos that day. But I narrowed it down to two, one of Indra and one of Kate.
This photo shows the open space around Indraloka and the joy with which Indra does her work, since she's smiling even though she's hauling a wheelbarrow. I love that a cat is walking along the path near her because it shows that the animals really do have free rein of the sanctuary.
Like Indra, Kate is full of energy. The day the pigs moved in the house, she was smiling from ear to ear. I think this picture perfectly captures her emotions that day. She was so excited to see the pigs using the structure she designed and built with her students. She was literally jumping and cheering.
Ed: My favorite photos are the ones that show Indra's special relationship with the animals. She is always talking to them and getting very close to cuddle and pet them and that came through in photos with the horses, pigs,and sheep especially. I particularly like this one with the sheep.
I also like this cat photo I quickly captured walking by a window.
