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Dhunn – The Petting Farm
Dhunn – The Petting Farm 
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| Type | NGO |
| Founded | 2019 |
| Founders |
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| Location | Dharmaj, Gujarat, India |
| Industry | Exotic Pet Farming and Research |
| Employees | 8 |
Dhunn – The Petting Farm is a privately operated exotic petting zoo run by the registered non-profit organization Dhunn Charitable Trust, headquartered in the village of Dharmaj, in the state of Gujarat, India. While its foundations were laid in 2019, the trust was formally registered on 15 May 2025. The farm is known for sheltering over 350 animals belonging to more than 48 exotic species. It aims to raise awareness about animal welfare and environmental education, while promoting ethical exotic pet ownership.
Overview
Dhunn – The Petting Farm provides a sanctuary for exotic birds, mammals, reptiles, and primates, all housed under regulated and humane conditions. The farm operates in full accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, including updates from 2019 and 2022, and maintains legal registrations for all species through the government's Parivesh Portal. The project follows official norms set by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India.
Species hosted at the farm include:
Birds:
- Smaller species like Finches, Parrotlets, Budgerigars, and Lovebirds
- Medium-sized birds including Cockatiels, Rose Bourke Parrots, and Red-rumped Parrots
- Larger and more exotic parrots such as Caiques, Senegals, Conures, Rosellas, Kakariki, and Monk Parakeets
- Highly intelligent and colorful species including African Grey Parrots, Orange-winged Amazons, and Galah Cockatoos
- Rare cockatoos and macaws such as Moluccan Cockatoos, Triton Cockatoos, Bare-eyed Cockatoos, Eclectus Parrots, Bolivian Blue-and-Gold Macaws, and Green-winged Macaws
Animals:
Reptiles:
Eulipotyphla Mammals:
Marsupials:
Primates:
The farm also maintains a curated botanical garden consisting of 26 varieties of trees and plants. This serves as an internal source of food for the animals, promoting self-sufficiency and contributing to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Mission and Vision
The mission of Dhunn Charitable Trust is rooted in the principle of “preservation through compassionate captivity.” Recognizing the ongoing threats posed by urbanization and climate change to natural habitats, the initiative believes that, with proper veterinary care, species-specific habitat regulation, and adherence to animal welfare laws, exotic animals can lead enriched and healthy lives in human care.
Educational Outreach
Access to the farm is by prior appointment, and the facility caters primarily to:
- Government schools and selected private institutions
- Students pursuing environmental science, botany, or zoology
- School groups involved in eco-awareness and educational field trips
Educational visit levels include:
- Pre-primary: Emotional bonding and basic interaction with animals
- Primary: Observing daily routines and basic behavioral patterns
- Secondary: Learning about emotional and nutritional needs of animals
- Higher Secondary: Career-oriented guidance in zoology, veterinary science, and animal welfare
Other initiatives include:
- Eco-week programs for children with special needs
- Reptile rescue awareness and volunteer programs
- Seed distribution and plant giveaways
- Nest box installations and bird feeding campaigns
History
The roots of Dhunn go back to 1992, when siblings Archana Shailesh Patel and Chirag Satish Bhatt began adopting and caring for domestic animals, beginning with dogs. This passion evolved into formal training in pet behavior, rescue work, and the establishment of "Gypsypets," a dog boarding center, in 1996.
In 2002, the rescue of a leopard cub proved to be a turning point, inspiring the founders to deepen their involvement in wildlife and exotic animal care. Their journey was guided by Dr. Govindbhai Patel, former superintendent of Kankaria Zoo, who mentored them in reptile rescue and exotic species management.
Following a move to Dharmaj, Dr. Archana Patel expanded the initial vision into a structured, legally compliant sanctuary for exotic animals under the Dhunn Charitable Trust.
Key Milestones
Foundation of Dhunn – The Petting Farm in 2019
Official registration under Dhunn Charitable Trust on 15 May 2025
Securing forest and wildlife clearances for exotic species housing
Establishing a shelter for over 350 exotic lives across 48 species
Training and mentoring six local reptile rescue volunteers under Dr. Archana Patel