Ratan Tata Invests ₹165 Crore in Small Animal Hospital Mumbai it’s his last project
Mumbai: Ratan Tata's last venture, a tribute to his enduring love for animals, especially dogs, is the Small Animal Hospital, Mumbai (SAHM). In Mahalaxmi, the Tata Trusts Small Animal Hospital, covering an area of 98,000 square feet, began operations in July 2024. Constructed with an investment of Rs 165 crore, it is one of the rare 24x7 animal hospitals in India.
Ratan Tata’s new Veterinary Hospital in India
The ₹165-crore, Small Animal Hospital, Mumbai (SAHM) offers comprehensive services, including ICUs and HDUs with life support for critically ill or injured animals, advanced diagnostic imaging such as CT scans, MRIs, X-rays, and ultrasound, along with specialty treatments in dermatology, dental, and ophthalmology. The hospital also boasts an in-house pathology lab, separate waiting areas for dogs and cats, and inpatient wards, ensuring pets receive world-class care.
This project is deeply personal for Ratan Tata, stemming from his own experience when he had to fly his dog to the University of Minnesota for joint replacement surgery, only to arrive too late. The joint had to be frozen in a particular position, and this incident fueled Tata’s desire to provide top-notch pet healthcare in India. The result is SAHM, a facility that brings cutting-edge veterinary care to the country.
A Dream Realized After Years in the Making
Originally announced in 2017 by the Tata Trusts, SAHM was initially planned for Kalamboli in Navi Mumbai but later shifted to Mahalaxmi due to its central location, crucial for emergencies. Despite delays due to the pandemic, the hospital began full operations after a successful trial run.
Expert Leadership and Philanthropy
Dr. Thomas Heathcote, Chief Veterinary Officer and CEO of the Advanced Veterinary Care Foundation (AVCF), oversees the hospital, which operates as a not-for-profit organization supported by the Tata Trusts. Dr. Heathcote remarked that the hospital will cater to thousands of pets, offering 24-hour care and potentially becoming one of the most impactful projects in animal healthcare.
Tata’s dedication to animal welfare is further highlighted by Shantanu Naidu, a board member of the AVCF and founder of Motopaws, a startup that creates reflective collars for stray dogs. Naidu’s role at SAHM ensures that animal welfare remains at the forefront of the hospital’s mission.
Stray Animal Care and Future Expansion
In keeping with Tata’s philanthropic vision, the hospital is building an annexe for the sterilization and treatment of stray dogs, run by the NGO Welfare of Stray Dogs. Phase 2 of the hospital’s expansion will introduce specialized surgeries like orthopedics, laparoscopy, complex medical management, physiotherapy, and advanced oncology.
A Lasting Legacy of Compassion
SAHM is not just a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital; it is a symbol of Ratan Tata’s enduring love for animals. Pets across Mumbai now have access to world-class healthcare, ensuring that their well-being is always a priority.
For pet owners seeking 24-hour emergency care or specialized treatment, the Small Animal Hospital, Mumbai offers unparalleled services, making it a true game-changer in the city’s veterinary landscape.
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