Ratan Tata’s affection for animals is well-known, and it’s no surprise that the only visitors allowed into Bombay House—Tata Group’s historic headquarters in Mumbai—without an access card are stray dogs. When the century-old building was renovated and reopened in July 2018, Tata is said to have dedicated a room specifically for the welfare of local street dogs.
The chic yellow kennel on the ground floor features a flap door, a bathing area, and a team of veterinarians, providing a home for former strays like Goa, Sweety, Junior, Simba, Chhotu, Rana, Jackal, Bushy, and Munni. Their upgraded lifestyle includes cozy cushions, toys, and even meals prepared in the building’s five-star kitchen.
Tata’s social media showcases his commitment to canines, featuring posts on behalf of dogs like Sur, Sprite, and Myra, whom he advocates for with urgent pleas for blood donations and adoptions. In one heartfelt message, he reflected on the plight of abandoned animals, saying, “I cannot imagine what must go through their minds when one day they have a home, and the next they don’t,” urging people to adopt nine-month-old Myra.
In another post related to the monsoon season, he emphasized the importance of checking under cars to prevent injuries to strays seeking shelter. On what would have been his late dog Tito’s 14th birthday, Tata shared a touching photo holding his pet’s paw, writing, “While few have the comfort of families, many struggle on the streets, and yet somehow, their affection remains the same. Those of you who strive for the welfare of the voiceless have my utmost respect.”
Tata’s determination to find advanced care for his injured dog inspired the creation of the Small Animal Hospital Mumbai (SAHM), a state-of-the-art 98,000 square-foot facility in Mahalaxmi that offers 24/7 medical care for dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals. In an exclusive interview with TOI before the hospital’s opening, Tata recounted the challenges he faced when he had to fly his dog to the University of Minnesota for joint replacement surgery. “But I was too late, and they had to freeze the dog’s joint in a specific position. That experience opened my eyes to what a world-class veterinary hospital could provide.”
Dr. Thomas Heathcote, the hospital’s chief veterinary officer, highlights the critical importance of animal health in today’s world, where diseases can arise from close human-animal interactions. He emphasizes SAHM’s mission to collaborate with pet owners and local veterinarians to create a positive environment where health and wellness are achievable and medical assistance is accessible to all.
