India spends big on pampered pets, but millions of street dogs are still going hungry

India’s booming pet-care industry, projected to grow nearly sevenfold from Rs 30,434 crore in 2024 to Rs 2.1 lakh crore by 2032, highlights a stark contrast. While urban pet parents are spending more than ever on premium food, grooming, healthcare and celebrations, millions of free-roaming street dogs continue to struggle with hunger, disease and limited access to veterinary care.

Veterinarians say greater investment in vaccination drives, sterilisation programmes, shelters and community feeding initiatives could help improve the lives of street animals while reducing stray populations humanely. Adoption is gradually gaining acceptance among urban pet parents: according to DCC Animal Hospital, nearly 20% of its canine clients are Indie (street) dogs, with spending on their care depending more on the owner’s mindset than the breed itself.

Businesses catering to premium pet products tell a different story. Aanchal Sapra, owner of PoochiesPie Pet Bakery, says around 60-70% of her customers own Shih Tzus or Retrievers, while the share of Indie dog owners remains comparatively low, reflecting how adoption is growing but has yet to become mainstream in the premium pet-care market.

For Delhi-based pet parent Jyoti Jaiswal, compassion extends beyond her own pet. ‘I make sure to feed the street dogs, cats and cows in my neighbourhood every day. No matter how expensive things become, it only motivates me to earn more so I can continue feeding and taking care of them,’ she says. Experts say the pet economy’s long-term success should be measured not just by rising consumer spending, but by how it improves the welfare of the country’s millions of street animals.