When we think of dogs, we picture wagging tails, wet noses, and boundless affection. But hidden behind the glossy windows of pet shops and Instagram-perfect puppy photos is a dark and disturbing reality — one of illegal breeding, neglected animals, and systemic cruelty.

In this powerful episode, we speak with Alokparna Sengupta, a trailblazer in India’s animal welfare movement and the Managing Director of Humane World for Animals – India (formerly Humane Society International/India). With over 15 years of tireless advocacy, Alokparna shares eye-opening insights into the cruel underbelly of the pet industry and the ongoing battle to reform it through rescue operations, policy change, and public education.

This is a conversation about compassion, accountability, and the urgent need to protect our most voiceless companions.

Discussion Highlights

• What constitutes illegal pet breeding and sales in India — and why it’s more widespread than you think
• Disturbing real-life cases from the field that expose systemic cruelty

• Why buying pets online or from pet shops often fuels a cycle of exploitation

• The role of legislation and how effective current laws really are

• The post-pandemic spike in pet abandonment and its underlying causes

• Tips for ethical pet adoption and how to be a responsible pet parent

• Humane World India’s holistic approach: rescue, rehab, reform, and education

• A deep dive into the #NoMore50 campaign and how you can be part of a historic push for stronger animal protection laws in India

If you love animals, you can’t afford to miss this one.