India, Aug. 26 -- Actors-couple Prateik Smita Patil and Priya Banerjee are unapologetically proud dog parents. On International Dog Day, the couple spoke to us about their two beloved pets - Chico, a Pakistani Bully, and Rocco, a Dogo Argentino, and how life with them has shaped their relationship, their worldview, and their sense of responsibility.

Chico entered Prateik's life in 2017 as a Christmas gift from a friend and spent his early years in Goa at one of the actor's restaurants. In 2021, Prateik finally brought him back to Mumbai, where he quickly became the heart of their home. Priya recalls how Chico even played a part in their relationship during the lockdown. "During the pandemic, Prateik missed Chico terribly. One day I just ...