Fantastic felines and captivating canines , the agenda of 'Pet Gala

Chandra Prabhu | NT

Bengaluru: Pet Parents and non pet parents and people alike, were gearing up for a pawsome day, as the Jayamahal Convention centre hosted the glamorous Pet Gala on Sunday.

It was a haven for pet parents, and people who are on the lookout for a companion - Medical camps and food stalls for the former, and adoption drives for the latter.

As one enters the convention centre, they see dogs jumping and walking around, as their parents try to discipline them, in allocated dog agility zones and discipling areas.

Towards the left, a ramp, for dogs and their parents to compete! food eating competitions, musical chairs were some of the activities that the people thoroughly enjoyed. clothed dogs and cats were the show stealers, as people flocked up to them with their cameras to click pictures. A skirt clad chihuahua? you got it.

A couple with both their cat and dog wearing bandanas? tick that in the agenda list! that was not all. Felines of different breeds from various parts of the country were present, put in u-shaped order.

Their presence was well enjoyed by Cat-enthusiasts with some enjoying the more playful and ferocious ones. On the stage, Two Australians were religiously judging the felines, the criteria, according to one of the parents of a cat participant, was its grooming and temparement.

Awards for "Best Kitten", "Best Adult" within breeds were awarded, based on the judge's decision. News Trail spoke to Imran and Aisha, who had one of their cats winning the "Best Kitten Award."

Aisha expressed her happiness at her cat's victory. A Neutered Traditional Longahir, "Coco" has won his parents' hearts yet again. Described as a playful and calm cat, "Coco" has had little to no visits to the vet. He has the life to live. He is fed chicken every morning, groomed well amongst 29 of his feline companions, "Coco" is described like a child by Aisha and Imran.

Adoption drives in the Pet Gala were expected to attract people. News Trail spoke to Ritikaa, a Volunteer from Bengaluru Opts to Adopt. Around 30 enquired for adoptions, in which ninety percent of them were for dogs.

On the measures taken by them, she explained "We make sure that these pets are certified by veterinary doctors. We also make sure that they are healthy and dewormed."

She also assured that the pets which get sick as soon as they are adopted can be considered for immediate treatment for them. Bengaluru Opts to adopt, are involved in helping people to choose the right pet, based on their needs.

"We do not just give away these pets. We engage in discussion with people and help them make an informed decision," Ritikaa added.

This team connects with foster and pet parents, and animal societies and helps them bridge the gap between them and the people in need of a cute companion. Pet Gala also set camps for medical treatments of pets, and it is important that they are ready with medical equipment.

Ashish, a doctor in the camp, said "few clients have come here for a general check-up, in which one of them had symptoms of tick fever, and another had dental tartar buildup in their mouth."

He also emphasised on the importance of these Medical check-ups as most of the pets had dental issues ignored by their parents.

"Right now, we perform these checkups, and if further treatment is needed we take them to the clinic, as we don't have the required equipment for them. Sonia from Cessna Lifeline Veterinary hospital also spoke to News Trail. She explained their broad checkup, which involved checking their weights and temperature. She said a lot of dog parents sought advice on diet and weight management.

"Parents also wanted to know how to manage aggression, and protocols of vaccination and deworming. Issues with skins and the teeth were also identified amongst these pets brought forward. Asking about the checkups of cats, Sonia said "A Lack of Appetite and hair loss were the issues they faced. Sonia also relished on the opportunity to increase awareness regarding pet health.

"We are doing this in a more pet-friendly space, and we directly interact with the parents. These pets get enriched both physically and mentally."

The Feline Club of India, led by Saquib Pathan is the organising team, along with key sponsors like Whiskas and JustDog. Pulikeshinagar MLA A.C Srinivisa along with Ex-Corporator A.R Zakir graced the cat competition with over 250 participants.

"What I like most about this event is the inclusivity of all breeds," said Habib S FCI executive member, Chennai.

"With Free Medical camps, and fun zones for dogs, Pet Gala has succeeded to meet its internati