The Otara Foundation is focused on environmental and wildlife conservation as well as animal welfare in Sri Lanka. Founded in 2015 by leading entrepreneur Otara Gunewardene, the foundation aims to not only protect Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity, but educate our future generations on the need for urgent action, to conserve what makes Sri Lanka truly unique — our precious wildlife and environment.
Otara Foundation also focuses on improving the lives of Sri Lanka's street dogs via the work carried out by Embark, another initiative launched by Otara Gunewardene in 2007.
Last year our rescue efforts resulted in 410 rescues and hospitalizations, highlighting our commitment to animal welfare. We administered 1,566 vaccinations and provided 3,961 treatments, significantly improving the health of many animals. We successfully completed 275 sterilizations to help manage the street dog population in some communities.
Continue reading
Embark held a series of community clinics, in partnership with Marchig Animal Welfare Trust over the course of January–March of 2024. These clinics were held in Rathmalana, Piliyandala and Bandaragama, with 280 sterilization procedures being carried out. We were also able to administer over 700 vaccines (Anti-Rabies and DHPL) throughout.
Continue reading
Embark carried 6 community clinics in 3 locations in Colombo and neighbouring areas over the period of October–December of 2023, administering a total of 586 vaccines to over 290 dogs. Medical treatments were provided for 220 dogs and 156 sterilization procedures were carried out.
Continue reading
The Otara Foundation, along with Rare Sri Lanka, were in discussions with Sri Lanka's Road Development Authority (RDA), with regard to the safety of the elephants who live alongside the Habarana–Trinco Road. This stretch of road runs between the Hurulu Forest Reserve and the Kaudulla National Park.
Continue reading
Founded in 2007, Embark is an initiative by Otara Gunewardene which works towards giving all street dogs the love, care and respect they deserve.
Find out more
