Ratan Tata’s hospital for animals is a vital argument against speciesism, the dogma that holds humans are superior to other animals. Simple truth is if we care more for other species, we too will be better off
Amidst the blitzkrieg of bathos that mostly forms the news, one recent story made many sit up. Tata Trusts will soon open a hospital for small animals in Mumbai, offering 24-hour in-patient wards, surgery services, speciality care, etc. Envisioned by industrialist Ratan Tata, an animal lover, the hospital will also look after stray dogs who don’t have anyone around to call their ‘pet parents’.
For many, this is welcome news. Those who have experienced an animal’s love know this is a relationship of inexplicable affection and deep comedy. Many are familiar with the hilarious tug-of-war between your pet and you over a slipper or shoe. Many collapse laughing as your pet proudly shows you a book or scarf they’ve shredded (any other perpetrator would be treated rather differently). And many know the sheer contentment of having your pet in your arms, its form round, its eyes holding the deepest, loving trust in you.