Some people adore animals but then there are people for whom animals are not a hobby, not a passion project, but family.
For Rani Maria Thomas, animals were never “pets.” They were part of everyday life. She grew up in Alappuzha, Kerala, in a home full of dogs, cats, birds, monkeys, and many other animals. She lived her childhood eating, playing and living with these animals. There was no clear line between humans and animals in her home. They were siblings in every sense that mattered.
Compassion as a way of life
Rani’s parents were animal lovers. Thus, caring for animals was a way of life. Growing up in such an environment shaped her naturally. Animals became an important part of her world, not something unusual or special. She understood their moods, their fears, and their comfort in a way that only comes from long and quiet familiarity.
The loss that changed her life direction
But one moment changed how she looked at things. One day, her macaw fell sick. No one knew what was wrong. Exotic birds were rarely understood. And the macaw didn’t survive.
For Rani, it was unsettling because it wasn’t just about losing macaw but also the fact that they didn’t know what to do, and nobody could help either. That moment changed everything for her.
Choosing veterinary medicine
At a stage when students were deciding to go for MBBS, Rani didn’t follow the same path. She knew that MBBS was a known and safe option, but she chose veterinary medicine instead. “I didn’t want any animal to suffer just because help wasn’t available,” explains Rani.
Today, she treats rare to exotic animals from macaws to hornbills. Recognising the need for focused care, Rani went a step further and built a 2,000 square foot clinic dedicated only to exotic animals and birds.
She has dedicated her life to understanding animals that cannot speak for themselves. To notice signs others might miss. To stand in for a voice they do not have. “My goal is to give them the best medical care possible,” says Rani.
Looking ahead
Her long-term practical career goal is to improve exotic animal care in India. She wants more veterinarians to step into this field. More awareness. Better systems. More accessible help. Because she believes that some doctors heal people and some heal the world.
Healing beyond humans
By choosing a path that only a few take, Rani has established that it’s also important to think about animals and birds. Her journey shows that care doesn’t always look loud or heroic. Sometimes, it looks like showing up every day for those who cannot ask for help.
With her selfless work, she leaves behind a powerful message that kindness does not have to be loud. When care is given with honesty, even the most silent lives are protected. By choosing animals, Rani Maria Thomas chose empathy, responsibility, and a life guided by purpose.
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