In this exclusive interview, Sagar Badakere, Co-Founder of EDU-PET India, discusses the platform’s mission to bridge gaps in pet education. He sheds light on tackling misinformation, addressing cultural nuances, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to elevate pet care standards and empower pet parents across India with expert-led knowledge.
Q: EDU-PET is a unique initiative in the realm of pet education. Could you share the story behind its inception and the specific gaps in pet care education that inspired its creation?
Sagar Badakere: Edu-Pet India was born out of sheer necessity. Over my 15+ years in the pet industry, I noticed a significant lack of reliable, science-backed information available to pet parents in India. The market is flooded with myths, unverified advice, and even outright scams. This gap wasn’t just affecting the lives of pets but also putting undue stress on pet parents. Edu-Pet India was created to fill this void, to serve as a trustworthy platform where pet parents could learn directly from experts and make informed decisions. We want to empower pet parents and uphold ethical practices in the industry.
Q: The rise of the pet population in India has been accompanied by a concerning influx of misleading information. How does EDU-PET actively combat the spread of such inaccuracies?
Sagar Badakere: Misinformation is one of the biggest threats to pet well-being. At Edu-Pet India, we combat this by collaborating exclusively with certified experts—veterinarians, nutritionists, trainers, behaviorists etc. We ensure that all content is backed by science and real-world experience. Through our seminars, webinars, and online communities, we address common misconceptions, from nutrition myths to training practices. Transparency and credibility are at the core of our approach.

Q: In your view, what are the primary bottlenecks in India’s pet care ecosystem today, and how does EDU-PET aim to address these challenges?
Sagar Badakere: The primary bottlenecks are misinformation, lack of regulation, and a fragmented ecosystem. Pet parents struggle to differentiate between credible service providers and those who lack proper qualifications. Edu-Pet India aims to bridge these gaps by educating pet parents, supporting ethical professionals, and promoting startups that bring innovative solutions. We’re building a community where transparency and expertise are valued above all else.
Q: Tackling the shortcomings in pet education requires sustained efforts. What specific programs or initiatives are in EDU-PET’s pipeline to address these gaps?
Sagar Badakere: We’re working on several initiatives, including expert-led webinars, in-person seminars, and an online community where pet parents can access exclusive content and interact with certified professionals. We also plan to launch mentorship programs for startups in the pet industry and collaborate with veterinary colleges to introduce future veterinarians to holistic and alternative practices. The goal is to create a ripple effect that benefits both pet parents and the industry as a whole.

Q: As someone deeply invested in elevating the standards of pet care and education, what concerns you most about the current state of the sector?
Sagar Badakere: My biggest concern is the commercialization of pet care at the expense of pet well-being. Many businesses prioritize profits over ethics, leading to substandard products and services. Additionally, the lack of regulation allows misinformation to thrive unchecked. My message to stakeholders is simple: prioritize ethics and transparency. The industry can only grow sustainably if we all work together to raise the standards. And going by this logic, we are proud to claim that we are India’s only Pet-event company that does not take any sponsorship from any of the Kibble brands.
Q: The pet care industry is witnessing a surge in start-ups. How promising do you find this trend, and how does EDU-PET support this new generation of businesses?
Sagar Badakere: The rise of pet startups is incredibly promising, as they bring fresh ideas and solutions to the table. However, not all startups have the guidance or resources they need to succeed. Edu-Pet India supports them by providing mentorship, helping them connect with ethical professionals, and giving them a platform to showcase their innovations to pet parents. By nurturing these startups, we aim to drive a positive paradigm shift in the industry.



Q: EDU-PET prides itself on advocating expert-led opinions and accurate pet health education. Could you elaborate on the platform’s core philosophy and long-term vision?
Sagar Badakere: Our core philosophy is simple: education is empowerment. By providing pet parents with reliable, expert-led information, we empower them to make the best decisions for their pets. Our long-term vision is to create a well-informed community where pets and their parents thrive. We also want to collaborate with stakeholders across the industry to promote ethical practices and innovative solutions.
Q: As EDU-PET continues to grow, what future initiatives or innovations can we expect?
Sagar Badakere: The future of Edu-Pet India is all about expansion and impact. We plan to introduce specialized certification programs, partner with veterinary colleges for guest lectures, and launch a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about ethical pet care. Additionally, we aim to create a robust online platform that connects pet parents with verified experts and startups. Our ultimate goal is to revolutionize pet care in India, one step at a time
Q: Any final message for pet parents or professionals in the industry?
Sagar: To pet parents, I’d say this: your pets rely on you for their happiness and well-being, so never stop learning and asking questions. And to professionals in the industry, let’s work together to create a better, more informed future for pets and their families. At Edu-Pet, our doors are always open for collaboration and conversation—because together, we can achieve so much more.
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