Bengaluru’s pet parents are grappling with rising difficulties in securing affordable auto rides with their pets. While some drivers refuse to transport animals, others impose extra charges, particularly during urgent vet visits.
Sweetie, the owner of a four-year-old Indie named Rani, faced rejection from an auto driver despite preparing for the ride with cleaning supplies and a mat. The driver’s disturbing behavior forced her to cancel the trip, amplifying her concerns about safety during evening travels, especially with a sick pet.
Radha, another pet owner, shared her experiences of rescuing injured dogs, noting that cab fares can soar above ₹3,000 for short distances. She believes these price hikes are a strategic business practice, leveraging the desperate situations of pet owners.
Rahul, who owns a Belgian Shepherd, echoed similar frustrations, revealing that he paid ₹900 for a mere 2-km ride. He noted that while dedicated pet cab services exist, they often require advance bookings, making them impractical in emergencies.
Despite the challenges, Rahul recounted a positive experience where an auto driver went above and beyond to assist his dog during a medical emergency. However, such kindness seems rare.
While dedicated pet taxi services like PawSpace and Uber offer options for transporting animals, their costs often deter pet owners needing immediate assistance. The struggle for affordable, accessible rides remains a pressing issue for many Bengaluru pet parents, especially in emergencies.
