The Hidden Work Behind Bengaluru’s Pet Cafés

Bengaluru: The pet cafés in Bengaluru function in a planned manner with respect to hygiene and monitoring of behaviour to ensure the safety of the animals, according to a staff member of a Bengaluru-based pet café.

Ashwin Morris (40), manager, said, “The first difference between a café and a pet café is the sense of responsibility. Hygiene is more than a routine,” he said, adding that the feeding bowls, toys, leashes, and water dispensers are cleaned two to three times a day depending on usage and are cleaned immediately if they get dirty. The place also undertakes heavy cleaning and sanitising of the area twice a day. There is a five-member cleaning staff who disinfect the area where the dogs move, play, and sleep.

The staff members also pointed out that monitoring of behaviour is an important part of the functioning of the café. Rahul Alfred Winston (27), a staff member, said that the dogs are closely monitored to avoid distress, overexcitement, or aggression. “Their behaviour can change suddenly,” he said, adding that the staff are trained to recognise early warning signs. Although regular visitors become accustomed to the surroundings, some dogs exhibit signs of anxiety, especially when parted from their owners. Careful interaction is ensured to minimise stress.

The café has a systematic intake process before agreeing to board any dog. Pet owners are required to bring their dogs for the first encounter, followed by a short experience at the daycare. This allows the staff to evaluate the dog’s temperament, level of anxiety, and adaptability to the surroundings before finally allocating boarding information.

The centre is operational 24/7, with an on-call veterinarian in case of emergencies. Minor biting cases are handled by the staff, while those requiring medical attention are referred to a veterinarian.

Morris states that the most challenging part of running the café is dealing with unpredictable behaviour while also keeping pet owners informed. While cleaning and sanitation follow a fixed routine, dogs can react differently depending on their mood and surroundings. He said the staff have to stay alert at all times to ensure the safety of both the animals and visitors, making supervision just as important as hygiene in the functioning of the café.