After his tenure as chairman of Tata Sons, Ratan Tata is on the verge of realizing a long-cherished dream – the inauguration of the Tata Trusts Small Animal Hospital in Mahalaxmi, Mumbai. Scheduled to open its doors next month, the hospital is a testament to Tata’s commitment to advancing veterinary care in India.
In an interview with the Times of India, Tata shared the inspiration behind the project, highlighting the evolving role of pets as integral family members. The venture stems from his personal experience of flying a pet for joint replacement, where he witnessed the capabilities of a world-class veterinary hospital. Tata emphasized the need for similar facilities in India to cater to the growing demand for advanced pet healthcare.
The Tata Trusts Small Animal Hospital, constructed at a cost of Rs 165 crore, spans five stories and has the capacity to accommodate 200 patients. The hospital will be led by British veterinarian Thomas Heathcote, who relocated to Mumbai for this pivotal role. Originally intended for Navi Mumbai, the hospital’s location was reconsidered by Ratan Tata due to concerns about the potential deterrent effect of a long commute on pet parents, especially during emergencies. Construction delays, compounded by challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, added complexity to the project timeline.
Acknowledging the hurdles posed by the pandemic and financial considerations, Tata expressed determination to overcome obstacles and bring this transformative veterinary facility to fruition.
As the inauguration date approaches, anticipation builds among pet owners and animal lovers alike, eager to witness the unveiling of Mumbai’s state-of-the-art veterinary facility.
