The journey of The Dogfather Hostel began not as a business idea, but as a calling from the heart.
Growing up, I always dreamed of having a dog, but my working parents never allowed it. They believed — rightly so — that dogs aren’t toys for entertainment. They’re a lifelong responsibility. They always worried who would care for the pet while we were all away at work or studies. Years passed, but the desire to have a dog never left my heart.
Then I met my life partner, Anurag Dhillon (Founder, The Dogfather Hostel). In one of our early conversations, he too expressed his deep love for dogs. It felt like destiny. Then we decided to get one- our first baby — a Beagle — and named him Daler Singh Dhillon. His little eyes, soft fur, and affectionate ways deepened our love and compassion for animals.
In 2021, after moving to Sector 105, Mohali, we spotted a senior female dog — a fragile Lab-Indie mix, growling at everyone. She looked abandoned and heartbroken. The guards often shooed her away, and other dogs would agitate her. When we asked around, a resident told us her name was Zoya and that she had been abandoned by a family. That moment hit us hard.
Anurag began feeding her, offering medical help, and slowly winning her trust. It took two years, but Zoya transformed into a loving soul. One day, we noticed she had maggots in her hind leg and was limping. That was it. I told Anurag, “How many more years will we watch her suffer roadside? Let’s bring her home.” And we did.
That was the moment we realized — this is not just our home. It’s meant to be a home for many more like her.
Over the years, we continued to rescue, foster, and care for dogs who had nowhere else to go. Simultaneously we also realized that many pet parents also struggled with finding safe, loving environments for their pets during vacations, emergencies, or work travel. Most boarding facilities felt too clinical or caged — far from the natural, joyful life dogs deserve.
Anurag shared his vision with Dr. Rupinder, Daler’s veterinarian (Founder, The Dogfather Hostel). When the three of us sat down to discuss this idea. She mentioned that she had always wanted to initiate something similar. Also, she expressed her interest in being a part of the initiative. That’s how we — Anurag, Dr. Rupinder, and I — came together to start this beautiful mission. And That’s when the vision for The Dogfather Hostel with Shelter was born — a place where rescue and comfort go hand in hand. Built over half an acre of open land, our space offers dogs the freedom to run, dig, swim, play, and just be themselves. Whether a rescue finding their home, here every dog is treated like family.
At The Dogfather Hostel, we believe no street dog should ever suffer — especially in times of need.
Our mission is built on love, empathy, and the firm belief that every dog — whether rescued or raised — deserves a life full of comfort, care, and dignity.
Though Zoya left us on December 7th, 2025, her presence still lingers in every corner of our hearts and this Hostel-Shelter. She may no longer walk beside us, but she gave us something eternal — a mission. A reason. A promise.
Pukhraj Dhatt
Founder, The Dogfather-A pet Hostel
