Mumbai is a city that never slows down — trains, traffic, and tight schedules define our daily lives. But amidst the chaos, one thing always brings calm: the soft purr of a cat or the wag of a dog’s tail. Owning a pet in Mumbai is pure joy, but it also comes with its share of responsibilities, costs, and legalities.
Here’s your complete guide to owning a pet in Mumbai — from costs and care to getting your BMC pet license and finding the best vets, parks, and pet-friendly cafes in the city.
💰 The Real Cost of Owning a Pet in Mumbai
Before you bring home your furry friend, it’s important to plan your budget. Here’s what it typically costs to care for a pet in Mumbai:
| Expense | Small Dog/Cat | Medium Dog | Large Dog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food & Treats | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 | ₹3,500 – ₹6,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 |
| Grooming | ₹800 – ₹2,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Vet Visits (avg/month) | ₹500 – ₹1,500 | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Vaccinations (annual) | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 |
| Pet Insurance (optional) | ₹300 – ₹600 | ₹500 – ₹800 | ₹800 – ₹1,200 |
💡 Tip: Use the Pet Cost Calculator on Mumbai7.com to estimate your total monthly or yearly pet expenses before adopting.
🐕 First-Year Setup Costs
- Adoption or purchase: ₹0 (shelter) – ₹25,000+ (breeds)
- Vaccinations: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
- Sterilization: ₹4,000 – ₹10,000
- Accessories (leash, bed, bowls): ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
- Total: ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 initial setup
📜 How to Get a Pet License in Mumbai (BMC Procedure)
Every pet owner in Mumbai must obtain a pet dog license from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) under Section 191(A) of the Bombay Municipal Corporation Act.
✅ Step-by-Step Process
- Visit your local BMC Ward Office
Head to the Health Department and ask for the “Pet Dog License Application Form.” - Submit required documents:
- Two passport-size photos (owner & pet)
- Vaccination certificate (must show anti-rabies shot)
- Proof of residence (Aadhaar, electricity bill, etc.)
- Filled and signed application form
- Pay the annual fee – ₹75 to ₹100 depending on your ward
- Collect your license certificate – You’ll get a printed or digital version with an ID number. Some wards issue metal tags for the collar.
🖥️ You can check updates or online availability at portal.mcgm.gov.in.
🏥 Top Veterinary Clinics in Mumbai
| Clinic | Area | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Crown Vet | Bandra / Lower Parel | 24×7 emergency, advanced diagnostics |
| Dr. Rana’s Pet Clinic | Malad West | Affordable, trusted |
| Happy Tails Vet Clinic | Andheri | Routine check-ups |
| PetZone Animal Hospital | Chembur | Surgery, vaccination |
| Bark & Beyond | Powai | Grooming + physiotherapy |
🏡 Apartment Living with Pets
- Create a quiet “pet corner” with bed, toys, and mat.
- Use balcony grass trays or pee pads for training.
- Take two walks daily — morning and evening.
- Keep rooms cool in summer using fans or mats.
- Play soft music to calm anxious pets.
Legal note: Housing societies cannot ban pets, as per the Animal Welfare Board of India. They can only enforce hygiene rules.
🌳 Pet-Friendly Parks and Beaches
- Carter Road (Bandra): Popular for early-morning dog walks.
- Priyadarshini Park (Napean Sea Road): Calm, scenic route for pets.
- Juhu Beach (before 8 AM): Spacious and fun for running.
- Pawfect Life (Borivali): Private dog park with swimming pool.
🐾 Adoption, Boarding & NGOs
🐶 Adoption Shelters
- World For All (Andheri): Adoption + medical care.
- YODA (Bandra): Youth Organization in Defence of Animals.
- Welfare of Stray Dogs (Lower Parel): Rescues and rehomes strays.
🏠 Pet Boarding
- The Collar Club (Chembur): Daycare and boarding.
- Pet Sitters (Borivali): Home-like environment.
- Pawsome Stay (Thane): Spacious and safe.
⚖️ Legal Rights for Pet Owners in Mumbai
- Pet licensing is mandatory under BMC Act 191(A).
- Societies cannot ban pets or restrict elevator access.
- Animal cruelty is punishable under IPC 428 & 429.
- To report abuse: Call MCGM Helpline 1916 or PAWS 9833480388.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Owning a pet in Mumbai means balancing love, patience, and planning. Yes, space is limited and life is busy — but your pet’s affection makes every bit worth it. Whether it’s a rescued Indie or a purebred Labrador, all pets bring the same happiness when cared for right.
Before you adopt, use the Mumbai7 Pet Cost Calculator to budget wisely, and make sure to register your pet with the BMC for a healthy, legal, and happy pet life!
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