How Ratan Tata’s animal love defined his humanity

Ratan Tata, the celebrated industrialist and philanthropist, was not only recognised for his business acumen but also for his profound love for animals, particularly dogs. His compassion for stray animals was often reflected through his social media, where he consistently advocated for their care and well-being. Tata’s efforts extended beyond mere advocacy, as he actively worked towards finding loving homes for strays and promoting their welfare.One of his notable initiatives was the Small Animal Hospital in Mumbai, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the care of animals, the first of its kind in the country.

Tata was well-known for adopting dogs himself, and his affection for them was visible in the images he shared on social media. His Instagram, often featuring heartwarming moments with his pets, provided a glimpse into his bond with them. In one of his final posts related to dogs, Tata expressed gratitude to four dogs and their owners who had responded to his appeal for donors for a seven-month-old dog in need of a blood transfusion.
He once shared a heartfelt appeal after his office found an abandoned dog near Sion Hospital in Mumbai. He urged people to help locate its guardian, or otherwise, provide a home. His dedication to ensuring the safety and care of strays was clear, as he ensured the dog was treated and cared for while waiting for its owner or a new home.

Tata was also deeply concerned about the safety of stray animals, especially during monsoons, when they often sought refuge under vehicles. He encouraged people to check under their cars before driving to prevent accidental harm to animals taking shelter there. His sensitivity towards this issue was palpable as he suggested offering temporary shelter to strays during heavy rains.
In 2021, Tata shared an image of a Taj Hotels employee shielding a stray dog from the rain with an umbrella, highlighting the kindness and empathy of everyday people. He often praised such acts of kindness, seeing them as examples of the care and compassion that should be extended to all creatures.

One of his most cherished companions was a dog named Goa, who had become his office mate at Bombay House. Tata fondly spoke about the joy he found in spending time with his adopted pets, particularly during festive occasions like Diwali.
Though his passing at the age of 86 left many heartbroken, his legacy of kindness towards animals continues to inspire. His deep love for dogs and other animals was an integral part of his life, demonstrating his belief in empathy and care not only for humans but for all living beings.