[Watch] An elephant calf collapsed on the road. What happens next will melt your heart

Also read: How man can be dog's worst enemy 

Septuagenarian Padmavathy's animal shelter is hidden away in the Chennai suburb of Tambaram, its air reeks of assorted animal habitation, its kitten and dogs almost outgrowing the place in good health. And yet, the atmosphere remains obstinately cheerful; walls and perches are enveloped in pretty creepers, flowers and lush foliage. Padmavathy and her husband have not turned away a single injured, traumatised and needy stray in the 15 years that they have been servicing. Their organisation, The Animal Welfare and Protection Trust (AWPT), continues to be fuelled by the drive that started it - the horrific killing of homeless dogs by the Chennai Corporation and their collective vow to never witness such barbarism again.

"Of course we need funds," she says sheepishly, tube feeding a palm-sized kitten, with two slightly larger ones clawing into the threads of her sari on the lap. Read more.