Have you noticed how many young Indian couples are choosing to adopt pets these days? It's a really popular trend and when you think about it, it makes a lot of sense. More and more couples are adopting dogs or cats and raising them as if they were their own little family members, rather than jumping into parenthood.
Financial considerations are a major factor in this change. The expenses of raising a child can mount up quickly, especially in India. However, the cost of caring for a pet is typically lower; in cities like Bengaluru or Mumbai, the majority of young pet parents spend between ₹3,000 and ₹5,000 per month on food, grooming and veterinary care. Additionally, having a pet makes life a little cozier and happier, as living in a fast-paced city can occasionally make you feel lonely.
A shift in culture is also taking place. The fact that people now refer to themselves as "pet parents" rather than "pet owners" demonstrates how much they care and how pets have truly become members of the family. This was further highlighted by the pandemic, as many of us turned to our pets for solace while being stranded at home.
In India, young couples are going all out to treat their pets like members of the family. These days, many pets have their own health-trackers or tablets to keep an eye on their well-being. Apps can display anything from activity levels to medication reminders, so it's not just about food and walks.
Pets are frequently included in vacation plans, and pet-friendly hotels and resorts are growing in popularity in major cities like Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai. Social media plays a significant role as well. In India, over 60 per cent of Gen Z and millennial pet parents post frequent updates, pictures and videos of their animals on Instagram and TikTok, making them into virtual celebrities with thousands of followers. Pets are now considered more than just animals; they are cherished companions with VIP status, as evidenced by the prevalence of grooming, special diets, pet yoga sessions and even birthday celebrations.
It's not all simple, of course. Finding pet-friendly places can be difficult at times, and depending on where you live, getting high-quality veterinary care can be a task. However, things are rapidly getting better because of India's booming pet care industry.
It all comes down to love and friendship in the end. Having a pet fills a special place in the lives of many young couples because it allows them to nurture, share joy and start a family on their own terms.