In one of his last significant acts of philanthropy, Ratan Tata, the industrialist and chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, spearheaded the creation of a world-class animal hospital in Mumbai. Opened in July, just months before his passing at the age of 86, the five-storey hospital located in Mahalaxmi has quickly become a sanctuary for animals, offering cutting-edge medical care.
The hospital, which cost ₹165 crore to build, can house nearly 200 patients and offers 24×7 emergency services, advanced ICUs, and highly specialized treatments for critically ill or injured animals. Led by British veterinarian Dr. Thomas Heathcote, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, surgery units, and even specialty treatments in areas like dermatology, dentistry, and ophthalmology. There is also an in-house pathology lab, making it one of the most advanced animal care centers in India.
Originally, the hospital was planned for Navi Mumbai, but Tata personally moved the project to a more central location, believing that it would be easier for pet owners to access. Spread over 98,000 square feet, the hospital reflects his deep compassion for animals.
Shantanu Naidu, a close associate of Tata and founder of Motopaws, a startup making reflective collars for dogs, serves on the hospital’s board of directors. Naidu’s efforts align closely with Tata’s vision to improve the welfare of animals.
Tata’s own experiences inspired this project. Recalling an instance when he flew his pet dog to the University of Minnesota for a joint replacement surgery but arrived too late, he expressed his desire to offer a world-class facility in India. “That experience allowed me to see what an advanced veterinary hospital can achieve,” Tata said.
His passing came just days after he reassured the public in a social media post that his medical examinations were routine, dismissing rumors about his health.
