Dogs walk the ramp as their owners look on gleefully

Sunday was filled with fun and frolic for many Bengalureans having companions with wagging tails. More than 100 people turned up for ‘Happy Dog Carnival 2017’ organised by Embassy Group.

The dogs and their owners participated with full zeal in the 2.5-km-long run. The canines showcased their talent and beauty at the fashion show and exclusive photo shoot booths.

The carnival also had acoustic live music, flea market, cocktail lounge, besides stalls for dog grooming and training. There were shelters for dogs to rest. There were also games for children to play while their parents were busy with the pets.

Nischal Shailendra, who participated with his dog, Irra, a Siberian Husky, said it was the first time they had taken part in such a show. “Irra is getting along well with other participants and she is a good poser. We go to Cubbon Park on Sundays.”

Ananya Srivastava was with her dogs, Meesha (Labrador) and Twerky (Indie-stray). “We are here for the stalls and to participate in the fashion show. Meesha cannot run because she is old,” she said.

The proceeds from the event will go to nonprofits, Charlie’s Animal Rescue Centre (CARE), Jakkur, and Haven Animal Welfare. Sudha Narayan, co-founder, CARE, said generous public donations were sustaining them. “This is a great way for us to spread awareness about our centre and raise funds for a good cause. We started four years ago with the purpose of helping stray and abandoned animals, where they could be housed, treated and rehabilitated.”

Reeza Sebastian Karimpanal, vice president (residential marketing and sales), Embassy Group, said the idea was to bring families together. “We are promoting our project as pet-friendly and this is the best way to do it by getting families along with their pets under one roof,” she said.