Every time 54-year-old Pramod Nikam reaches his official quarters at Tagore Nagar, Vikhroli East, on his bike, he is welcomed by canine escorts barking nineteen to the dozen.

Head constable Nikam, posted in the Local Arms division, Naigaon, looks after at least 35 stray dogs near his house, and even has three pet dogs. Nikam's love for animals comes from his parents and he also had a pet dog. He said, "In 1992, my sister's husband brought a one-month-old Pomeranian pup. But my sister was very scared of it, so I raised it. " He added, "I love stray dogs and feel people must look after them."