There’s no denying that Audrey Hepburn’s adage, happy girls are the prettiest holds a great deal of truth. But, for Bengaluru’s mutt loving folk, the adage is best suited for their cuddly paws – quite literally! The first edition of the Happy Dog Carnival’17, a charitable fundraiser in aid of rescue shelter homes in the city, is all set to kick-start on February 19. We take a closer look as we chat up with excited city folk...
“I’ve always believed that pets are the perfect prescription for a happier and healthier life. Keeping up with our intention of creating involved individuals and communities, this carnival is an idea that arose out of the teams plan of making happiness simple and accessible. Also, the idea that you can have fun and contribute to a good cause is what keeps us hopeful about the whole idea finding takers and panning out well,” opines Reeza Sebastian Karimpanal, VP and one of the core members of the initiative. All proceeds from the event will go to ngos C.A.R.E and Haven Animal Welfare.
The innovative set-up (2.5 K run and a ramp walk with dogs paired with carnival games and flea markets) apart, what’s piquing the interest of people is the underlying message behind the initiative.
“In cities, most pets are bound to a lifestyle which suppresses their natural instincts. At the carnival, I look forward to pet owners participating in the 2.5k run which is a great way to bond with the pets. This is a common activity that pet owners needs to do every day. As a pet parent, it is a challenge to find a place where I can run safely with my dog and I’m glad that this event in particular will be offering a space, which facilitates the same. Fun and frolic aside, I’m up for it solely for it’s healthy arrangement,” opines Priya Stephens, a canine trainer in town.
Adding to how it’s the intend that matters, Natasha Pai, a pet lover, states, “The idea behind the concept was pretty simple. In a city that boasts of such a huge pet population, it’s only justified to host events that will protect them. That is how rescues can get funds to help street dogs, in whatever way possible.The fact that you can unwind with your pet, and yet contribute towards a social cause is what drives me towards the entire idea.”
Ashok Chintala, a pet photographer and owner adds, “When giving to effective charity, the size of your donation directly correlates with the number of people/voiceless beings you are able to help. Interestingly, you don’t have to be a millionaire to make a significant difference; even small contributors have the potential to drastically improve an animal’s quality of live. To me, that’s the message I wish to spread and be a part of.”
