In a world where the unconditional love and companionship of our furry friends enrich our lives, one man’s journey as an animal lover took an unexpected turn when his beloved pet faced a health challenge.

 Akash Murali, the founder of Urban Animal, adopted Milo, a little puppy who stole his heart. However, when just two years old, Milo was diagnosed with arthritis, leaving Akash concerned about the potential health complications his furry companion could face in the future.

This pivotal moment sparked a deep realisation for Akash—he was unaware of his pet’s genetic history and the implications it could have on Milo’s well-being. 

Driven by a passion for animal welfare and a determination to enhance the lives of pets across the country, Akash embarked on a mission to make DNA testing accessible, accurate, and affordable for all pet parents. This dedication gave birth to Urban Animal, India’s pioneering animal welfare organisation, and set Akash on a transformative entrepreneurial journey.

At the heart of Urban Animal’s vision lies a mission to improve the quality of dogs’ lives by offering an early diagnosis of diseases and targeted preventive healthcare. 

Armed with the power of genetic insights, Urban Animal aims to empower pet parents to make informed decisions and provide their furry companions with personalised care, tailored to their unique needs.

With an unwavering commitment to animal welfare, Urban Animal is on a quest to unravel the genetic mysteries of India’s beloved pets, ensuring that every wagging tail and playful bark is met with compassion, understanding, and a healthier, happier life. 

In the heart of a bustling metropolis, where humans rush and skyscrapers loom large, a hidden world of furry souls yearning for compassion exists. 

Amidst the cacophony, Akash Murali and Arunav Vaish, the founders of Urban Animal, have dedicated themselves to bridging the gap between humans and their four-legged companions. 

We deep dive into this remarkable journey of love, science, and coexistence, as we delve into the extraordinary world of Urban Animal’s groundbreaking DNA testing initiative.

A new frontier in animal care

With the introduction of DNA testing for animals, Urban Animal has paved the way for a new frontier in pet care and welfare. Just as DNA testing has transformed human healthcare and genealogy, this innovative technology promises to provide pet owners with a deeper understanding of their furry companions.

“We recognised the tremendous potential of DNA testing in advancing animal care,” says Akash Murali. “By leveraging the power of genetics, we can better tailor pet care, address potential health issues proactively, and strengthen the bond between pets and their owners.”

Unravelling ancestral origins

One of the key aspects of Urban Animal’s DNA test is its ability to reveal the ancestral origins of pets. Through a simple swab of the pet’s cheek, genetic markers are analysed to trace their heritage back to various breeds.

For mixed-breed dogs, this offers a fascinating insight into their genetic makeup, shedding light on their unique blend of characteristics.

“The knowledge of a pet’s ancestry can be not only intriguing but also valuable,” Akash explains. “Understanding the breeds that make up a pet’s genetic composition can help owners tailor their care, training, and lifestyle to meet their specific needs.”

A window into health and wellness

Beyond unlocking ancestry, Urban Animal’s DNA test delves into the pet’s health and wellness. By analysing genetic markers associated with certain health conditions and traits, the test can provide early indications of potential health risks, allowing for proactive preventive measures.

“For certain breeds, there are genetic predispositions to specific health issues,” Akash reveals. “Our DNA test can identify these markers, empowering pet owners and veterinarians to take preventative steps and provide targeted healthcare.”

Personalised care and nutrition

Armed with knowledge about their pet’s unique genetic profile, pet owners can make more informed decisions regarding their care and nutrition. Understanding genetic predispositions can influence dietary choices, exercise regimens, and overall lifestyle adjustments to optimise the pet’s well-being.

“Each pet is an individual with distinct needs,” Akash emphasises. “Our DNA test enables pet parents to provide personalised care that considers their pet’s genetic makeup, ensuring a happy and healthy life.”

Urban Animal understands that some pet parents may have specific requirements for genetic testing. To cater to these preferences and tackle price-related concerns, the organisation is developing customised testing panels that focus on the most common diseases found in their reports.

“We listen to our customers’ feedback and strive to accommodate their needs,” Akash explains. “Our new panel option will allow pet parents to focus on the most prevalent diseases while benefiting from our affordable pricing. It’s about providing personalised options without compromising on the quality of information.”

Unravelling behavioural traits

Behavioural traits often shape the dynamics of the human-pet relationship. Urban Animal’s DNA test extends its insights beyond physical health, aiming to shed light on behavioural predispositions as well. Understanding a pet’s natural inclinations and tendencies can assist in effective training and behaviour modification.

“Behavioral traits play a crucial role in how pets interact with their owners and the world around them,” Akash states. “By uncovering these traits through genetics, we can better support pet parents in fostering a harmonious and enriched environment for their pets.”

The power of knowledge

Urban Animal’s DNA test represents more than just scientific advancements—it is a testament to the power of knowledge in enhancing the lives of animals and their human companions. Equipped with genetic understanding, pet owners can embark on a journey of informed decision-making, proactive healthcare, and enriched pet ownership.

“The more we know about our pets, the better we can care for them,” Akash affirms. “Our DNA test aligns perfectly with Urban Animal’s mission of promoting the well-being of animals and fostering a strong human-animal bond.”

The path forward

As India’s first DNA test for animals, Urban Animal’s initiative has garnered significant attention and excitement among pet owners and veterinarians alike. With each DNA test conducted, the organisation takes one step closer to its vision of advancing animal welfare through cutting-edge technology.

“We are thrilled by the response we have received so far,” Akash shares. “But this is just the beginning. We envision a future where DNA testing becomes a standard tool in veterinary care, enriching the lives of countless pets across the nation.”

Embracing the future

Urban Animal’s DNA test signifies a remarkable leap in animal care, showcasing how the integration of technology can empower pet owners to be proactive, informed, and compassionate caretakers. 

Embracing the future of animal welfare, this pioneering initiative lays the groundwork for further advancements that will elevate the well-being of animals and deepen the bond between humans and their furry companions.

As the world marvels at the possibilities unlocked by DNA testing for animals, Urban Animal stands as a beacon of progress—a guiding light in the quest for a more enlightened and compassionate society, where our pets are cherished, understood, and loved in every genetic detail.

Urban Animal’s ambition to revolutionise pet care goes beyond dogs, and the organisation is now actively working on product expansion to cater to other beloved animals. 

The breed ID test is one such innovation that aims to help pet owners identify the specific breed composition or mix within their dogs. By collaborating with NGOs, Urban Animal aims to improve pet adoption by providing potential pet parents with valuable insights into their prospective furry companions.

“Our breed ID test is not about supporting breeders,” clarifies Akash. “We envision this product as a tool to encourage adoption and help pet parents make informed decisions based on genetic information. We want to show that every dog, regardless of their breed, deserves love and a forever home.”

In addition to expanding within the pet space, Urban Animal is preparing to launch cat DNA testing. This expansion into the feline world reflects the organisation’s commitment to catering to a broader range of pets, acknowledging the unique genetic insights required for cats.

“Cats are equally cherished members of many families,” says Akash. “We want to offer pet parents the same level of genetic understanding and personalised care for their feline companions. Our cat DNA testing will be another milestone in our journey of making pet care more inclusive and informed.”

While dogs and cats fall under the D to C category (direct-to-consumer), Urban Animal is also venturing into the B to B space (business-to-business) to offer DNA testing services for livestock animals, such as cattle and bovine. By collaborating with farmers and government bodies, the organisation aims to contribute to better livestock management and improved healthcare for these essential animals.

“Our technology extends to livestock animals as well,” affirms Akash. “By working with farmers and government agencies, we can help enhance the well-being of cattle and other livestock, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.”

A message to the pet community: Love, compassion, and responsibility

As someone deeply immersed in the world of animal welfare, Akash Murali has a heartfelt message for all pet parents and pet lovers across the country.

“Let us stand by our pets through thick and thin,” Akash urges. “Abandoning a pet for any reason, is heartbreaking and unjust. Our pets are family, and they deserve our unwavering love and loyalty. Together, we can create a society where pet abandonment becomes a thing of the past.”

Akash also calls upon every pet lover to make a difference in the lives of street dogs. Even a small act of feeding a stray dog can have a tremendous impact on its well-being. He shares heartwarming anecdotes of individuals who selflessly care for street dogs, providing sustenance and kindness every day.

“It’s like a small drop in the ocean,” Akash says, “but if more of us come together and do our part, we can create a wave of compassion that transforms the lives of countless animals.”

Unveiling the future: A journey of love and coexistence

As Urban Animal continues to touch lives and shape a more compassionate society, their journey is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of love, science, and coexistence. 

With every wagging tail and soulful gaze, the team affirms that the bond between humans and animals is a gift—one that brings joy, fulfilment, and a shared responsibility to care for our beloved pets.

As pet parents and animal lovers, let us embrace the message of love, compassion, and responsibility that Urban Animal exemplifies. 

Together, we can build a world where our pets are understood, cherished, and loved in every genetic detail—creating a future where the hearts of humans and animals beat as one.