The Great Indian Pet-Parenting Boom
The numbers tell a story of a profound cultural shift. India's pet care market is valued at over US$ 3.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to skyrocket, with some estimates predicting it will reach nearly US$ 25 billion by 2032. This phenomenal growth
is fuelled by rising disposable incomes, urbanisation, and a change in mindset from 'pet owner' to 'pet parent'. The pandemic accelerated this trend, with pet adoption numbers climbing as people sought companionship. Consequently, demand for services beyond basic food and veterinary care has surged. Premium grooming salons, boutique boarding facilities, and professional dog trainers are now commonplace in urban centres, catering to devoted owners willing to spend generously on their furry family members.
An Industry Operating in a Grey Zone
This rapid expansion has a dark side: it has largely outpaced regulation. While there are rules for pet shops and dog breeders, requiring registration with State Animal Welfare Boards, the service sector—grooming, boarding, and training—often operates without specific, uniform oversight. Many businesses may only require a basic municipal trade license, with no mandate for staff certification, specific training in animal handling, or standardized safety protocols. This creates a massive grey area where passion and love for animals are the only guarantees of quality care, and there is little to stop unqualified or negligent individuals from setting up shop. This lack of a formal framework leaves both pets and their parents vulnerable.
When Trust is Broken
Across the country, stories of negligence are becoming alarmingly common, often shared in horrified social media posts and community groups. There are reports of dogs suffering brutal treatment at clinics, pets dying mysteriously at boarding facilities, and animals returning from groomers with injuries. While many service providers are dedicated professionals, the absence of accountability makes it difficult for consumers to distinguish the good from the bad. When tragedy strikes, recourse is often limited. Proving negligence can be difficult, and legal battles are emotionally and financially draining. These incidents highlight a critical failure to protect the very animals the industry is meant to serve.
A Blueprint for Accountability
The solution is not to stifle this growing industry but to ensure it matures responsibly. Animal welfare advocates and frustrated pet owners are increasingly calling for a robust regulatory framework. Some states are beginning to take action. In early 2026, Tamil Nadu became the first state to introduce a comprehensive policy for regulating pet boarding, training, and grooming centres. The policy mandates registration, CCTV surveillance, minimum space and hygiene standards, and accountability for animal welfare, creating a potential blueprint for national action. Such regulations would involve mandatory registration for all service providers, certification for staff, regular inspections, and a clear, accessible system for reporting complaints and seeking justice.
How Pet Parents Can Protect Their Companions
Until nationwide regulations are in place, the burden of due diligence falls heavily on pet parents. Before entrusting your pet to any service provider, a thorough check is essential. Visit the facility in person and ask for a complete tour. A refusal is a major red flag. Observe the cleanliness and the condition of other animals present. Ask pointed questions about staff training, emergency protocols, and their partnership with a local veterinarian. Check online reviews, but also ask for references from existing clients. For boarding facilities, inquire about exercise schedules, feeding routines, and whether they are staffed overnight. For groomers, ask about their experience with your specific breed and the products they use. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.
