Dog matchmakers a hit with high-end pet owners

Despite animal activists advocating adoption of Indian breeds, there is still a huge demand in the city for expensive imported breeds. Some of the dogs in demand include Shih Tzus, Poodles, Weinmaraners and Huskies. These dogs are imported and thrive in air-conditioned comfort with the best of food and treatment. So it’s no wonder that even finding the right mate for such dogs requires the intervention of an expert. 

Dinesh is one of the few doggie match-makers in the city. While most people in the profession are breeders, he is clear that he is in this only because of his love of animals. The 37-year-old admits that his vocation constantly invites disapproval from his family and friends, but it’s his passion he says. “I am into this profession for over 15 years. My passion is helping pets find their right match,” said S Dinesh, of Chindadripet. After wrapping up work at his day job in a catering company, Dinesh becomes quite busy thereafter in his real vocation. “I have a big album, which contains the addresses of pet owners,” he added. 

Dinesh does not charge a fee for his service. “I only demand good photographs from the pet owners. Periodically, I keep updating the pet’s age, photos and last vaccination dates”, Dinesh said. However, he admits that it’s a lucrative profession and others known to him charge around Rs 25,000 for a good ‘match’. He has also created a WhatsApp group of pet owners to provide match making services even on Sundays. “Sometimes I work overnight. A few pet owners are very specific about breeds, almost like choosing from a matrimonial site. I have found 500 matches so far,” he said. He has two pet dogs in the house. 

Another animal matchmaker is part-time deejay Vignesh. However, his love is for felines. “I have always loved animals, especially dogs and cats. After my studies, I learnt how to network and find the right match for the pets,” Vignesh said. 

Vignesh is into cat matchmaking services. “Many cat owners approached me to find them a nice match for their pet. Initially, it was very difficult, but I learnt from a veterinary staff about different cat breeds,” he added. Many ‘matchmakers’ shy away from admitting they help animals breed as it invites a lot of judgement from activists and animal groups who staunchly oppose foreign breeds being kept in a hot city like Chennai. However, with several expats and wealthy people who love fancy breeds, people like Dinesh will always find takers for their services.