Actor Shalini Pandey has joined PETA India in a new pro-adoption campaign urging people to adopt animals from shelters rather than buy them from pet stores or breeders. The campaign delivers a simple yet powerful message: choosing adoption can save lives and help address India’s growing crisis of animal homelessness.
In the campaign, Shalini Pandey appears with a gentle desi dog from World For All, encouraging people to “begin a lifelong friendship” by opening their homes to animals in need. The visuals highlight warmth, compassion, and the deep bond between humans and rescued animals. Photographer Keegan Crasto led the shoot, with styling by Khyati Busa, hair by Poonam Solanki, and make-up by Rheya Sanghai.
Shalini’s involvement in the campaign is deeply personal. She is a proud guardian of an indie dog named Bir, whom she rescued from the streets of Himachal Pradesh in 2021. Bir has become a beloved part of her life and often appears on her social media, reflecting her genuine commitment to animal welfare.
Speaking about adoption, Shalini shared that indie dogs and cats are intelligent, loving, and beautiful companions. She believes adopting an animal is one of the most meaningful decisions a person can make and encourages those ready for the responsibility to adopt from shelters or rescue animals from the streets.
The campaign also highlights the scale of the issue in India. More than 60 million dogs and cats live on the streets, while millions more remain in shelters because of a shortage of loving homes. Buying animals from breeders or pet shops worsens this situation by reducing the chances that homeless animals will be adopted.
PETA India further points out that so-called “pedigree” animals are often bred for appearance rather than health, leading to serious medical issues such as breathing problems, heart defects, and joint disorders. In contrast, Indian community dogs are generally healthier and more resilient.
By lending her voice to this cause, Shalini Pandey joins several other well-known personalities who support adoption and responsible pet care. The campaign also encourages sterilisation, a safe and effective way to prevent unwanted litters and reduce animal suffering.
The message is clear: adopt, don’t shop—and help give every animal the chance at a safe and loving home.