Jana Kokavcová: Building a Future for Animal Rescue

In 2009, Jana Kokavcová and three fellow founders established Tuláčik Animal Shelter in Brezno with limited resources and a clear goal: to provide abandoned animals with safety and care. Starting with a donated mobile unit, they gradually built the foundations of an organization supported by volunteers and the local community.

From the beginning, Kokavcová combined hands-on animal care with organizing events, coordinating support and developing the shelter's activities. What began as a small local initiative gradually expanded its capacity to rescue and rehome abandoned dogs.

Today, Tuláčik Animal Shelter rescues up to 1,200 dogs each year. Its work extends beyond providing temporary shelter, including veterinary care, adoption and communication with prospective owners.

A growing volunteer network supports the organization's daily operations. Team members help coordinate adoptions, care for the animals and communicate with potential owners, while social media and local media help connect rescued dogs with new homes.

Kokavcová's long-term commitment to animal rescue has also received national recognition. In 2025, she was nominated for the prestigious Krištáľové krídlo award in the Philanthropy category. The nomination recognized her work in leading Tuláčik Animal Shelter, where she and her team rescue up to 1,200 dogs from the streets each year while organizing public and fundraising events and building a community of volunteers around animal rescue.

The connection with Krištáľové krídlo continued in 2026. On 29 May 2026, the Krištáľové krídlo Charity Golf Cup raised €6,500 for Tuláčik Animal Shelter. The full amount was dedicated to supporting the shelter's work in rescuing, treating and finding new homes for abandoned animals.

The establishment of a veterinary clinic became an important step in the organization's development. With three veterinarians involved, the shelter can provide medical care for injured, sick and abused animals and support their recovery before adoption.

Future projects include expanding the facilities, creating space for farm animals and developing educational activities for children and families. The aim is to combine animal rescue with education about responsible care and the relationship between people and animals.