From Guard Dog to Fur Baby
India is in the midst of a profound shift in its relationship with pets. What was once a culture of keeping dogs for security has blossomed into one of 'pet parenting', where animals are cherished as integral family members. This humanisation of pets is the single
biggest driver of a booming market, with a 2026 report noting that 56% of Indian owners now see their pet as a full family member. This emotional upgrade is reflected in spending, with a growing number of millennial and Gen Z owners driving demand for premium products and services that mirror human lifestyles, from specialised diets and wellness products to luxury accessories and even birthday cakes.
A Multi-Billion Dollar Industry
The numbers are staggering. India's pet care market was valued at around $3.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 20%, potentially reaching over $24 billion by 2032. This explosive growth isn't just in pet food. The pet services segment—encompassing grooming, training, and boarding—is gaining significant momentum in urban centres and even Tier-2 cities. Demand for professional dog training has reportedly grown threefold in five years, while luxury boarding facilities offering air-conditioned suites and webcam access are no longer a novelty. E-commerce platforms have further accelerated this trend, with one major retailer reporting over 50% year-on-year growth in its pet care category.
The Dangerous Training Gap
While the industry expands rapidly, the development of a skilled, certified workforce has not kept pace. The core of the problem is a significant lack of regulation and standardised training for pet groomers, handlers, and trainers. Unlike veterinarians, who must meet specific educational qualifications, there is no single, government-mandated body that certifies or licenses professionals in the broader pet services sector. This means anyone can open a grooming salon or a boarding facility with minimal oversight, often just a basic shop license. This lack of a formal framework leaves the industry vulnerable to inexperienced individuals offering services where pets may endure confinement or inadequate care.
When Unregulated Care Turns Tragic
For pet owners, this training deficit can have devastating consequences. Across social media and news reports, stories have emerged of neglect and abuse at the hands of untrained or cruel staff. Incidents have included a dog being blinded in one eye at a Thane boarding facility and another case where a dog died while under the care of a pet care home. In February 2024, a video went viral showing staff at a pet clinic in Thane repeatedly punching and kicking a dog, leading to an FIR being filed after intervention from PETA India. These high-profile cases highlight a systemic risk: without proper knowledge of animal behaviour, safety protocols, and humane handling techniques, even well-intentioned staff can cause stress, injury, or worse.
The Path to Professionalism and Safety
Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach. Animal welfare advocates and industry insiders are calling for the formalisation of the sector, including the establishment of clear standards and certification programs for pet service professionals. While some private certification courses exist, they are not mandatory. In the absence of federal regulation, the responsibility currently falls on pet parents to be vigilant. Before entrusting their pet to any service, owners are advised to visit the facility in person, ask for staff credentials and training background, check online reviews from multiple sources, and request to see where their pet will be housed and cared for. PETA India even advises guardians to stay with their dogs during grooming services whenever possible.
