Have a beer, Sir Doggy

– Velvet beds, a relaxing spa, 24-hour medical care and non-alcoholic beers imported from Belgium: the life of a pampered pooch in India would leave many humans envious.

Critterati, which claims to be South Asia’s first luxury hotel for dogs, offers suites at up to $70 (R940) a night for pets whose “parents” will spare no expense to indulge their pride and joy.

A world away from the daily struggle to survive for India’s estimated 30 million strays, breeds such as St Bernards, Labradors and Lhasa Apsos can now enjoy the last word in canine coddling.

Chief executive Deepak Chawla opened Critterati in the New Delhi satellite city of Gurgaon to offer the wealthy an alternative to more down-at-heel facilities in India.

“No decent dog owner would want his dog to stay in those places,” he said.

The facility is riding a wave of growing love for pets as the Asian giant’s economy hits new heights. The number of household dogs in India has risen from two million in 2002, to an estimated 15 million in 2016 – and is forecast to hit 26 million by 2021.

The top-of-the range Critterati suite offers a giant bed with velvet headboard, television and private dog-flap leading onto a balcony.

There is a swimming pool, a spa and a vet on 24-hour call, while a medical unit with operating theatre is being built.

A dog cafe serves rice and chicken and the menu also features muffins, pancakes and icecream – with bacon and vanilla a particular favourite – all washed down with non-alcoholic dog beer from Belgium. –

Gurgaon