As we celebrate 22 years of providing the right knowledge to do the right thing- we also celebrate women who are redefining veterinary care, entrepreneurship, education and animal welfare. From pioneering specialists and educators to hospital founders and industry leaders, these women have gone beyond conventional roles to create new standards of excellence and compassion in the pet world. Their journeys reflect expertise, courage, innovation and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of animals.
Recently at a special awards event in New Delhi by IPIA celebrated these remarkable women veterinarians and entrepreneurs whose contributions are making a tangible difference. They include pioneers in veterinary ophthalmology, oncology, dermatology, cardiology, exotic and avian medicine, rehabilitation and critical care, as well as women who have built hospitals, specialist practices and businesses that are transforming the way pet care is delivered in India. Many have also contributed significantly to education, research, mentorship, animal welfare and the professionalisation of the industry.
It is a recognition of the women who are helping build the future of India’s pet ecosystem. From established leaders with decades of experience to pioneering entrepreneurs creating new opportunities in grooming, pet products, healthcare and services, each honouree represents a story of perseverance and impact. Together, they demonstrate how women are not only participating in the growth of the pet industry but are actively shaping its direction, raising its standards and inspiring the next generation.
At another event: India’s pet care market is projected to surpass Rs. 11,000 crores by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8% between 2026 and 2031, according to a new Euromonitor International report, Pet Care in India: Shaping a Resilient and Inclusive Companion Care Landscape, unveiled at the CII India Petcare Summit 2026. The report’s central message is not the scale of the opportunity but what stands between the industry and it: the next phase of growth, will be won on stronger regulatory foundations, deeper veterinary capacity and closer collaboration across the ecosystem, not demand alone.
Manish Syag, Managing Director, Mars Pet Nutrition India, said, “India’s pet care industry has tremendous headroom for growth. Today, only 9% of dogs and 27% of cats are fed packaged pet food, even though pet food contributes 86% of the category’s retail value. As more pet parents embrace quality nutrition and access expands across the country, science-based regulation will be a critical enabler of this growth.” Satinder Singh, Managing Director, Royal Canin, added, “A future-ready pet care ecosystem must be built on three pillars, pets first, science and trust. Science-based regulations can improve transparency, encourage innovation and help build consumer confidence while enabling the industry to grow responsibly.”
Celebrating our Pets today and every day, join us on our Facebook and Instagram pages to celebrate our Precious Paws today and every day!
— Shweta, shwetadew02@gmail.com