Mumbai: Renowned for his compassion towards stray dogs, Ratan Tata is on the verge of launching his long-awaited initiative—a state-of-the-art animal hospital in Mumbai.
Spanning 2.2 acres and constructed at a cost of Rs 165 crore, this facility will stand out as one of the few 24x7 hospitals in India catering to dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals. The hospital is set to open its doors in the first week of March.
"Pets are considered integral members of families today. Having cared for numerous pets in my lifetime, I understand the necessity for such a hospital,” Ratan Tata told media.
While talking about the ordeal he faced when seeking advanced medical treatment for his injured dog, Tata said his experience provided him with firsthand exposure to the capabilities of a world-class veterinary hospital, prompting him to advocate for the establishment of a similar facility in Mumbai.
The Tata Trusts Small Animal hospital will be the latest jewel in the crown of the Trusts, helmed by Ratan Tata himself. The Trusts have a 30-year lease agreement with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for the hospital land.
The hospital will include a specialized unit operated by an NGO, focused entirely on the well- being of stray dogs.
"It is a personal dream of mine that the city should have a state-of-the-art animal health centre... and I am delighted to see it finally come to life. It will be a resource for everyone who owns pets or comes across distressed animals, and it will save a limb, or a life, and help cure disease," said Tata.
