That Cafe, This Cafe, Now Pet Cafe!

What are celebrations without our loved ones? They seem incomplete, right? Our pets are no less than our family; instead they are our children, our best friends and our most reliable companions. On a special occasion, we like to spend some time enjoying at a café or restaurant with our family and friends. How heartbreaking it is to leave those sincere and loving pair(s) of eyes behind in the care of a friend of neighbour while we go out to enjoy. But then how can a pet be allowed in a cafeteria?

The great news is that people are opening up to the idea of pet-friendly eateries in India. The opening up of doors to dogs and other pets is most visible in metropolitans like Mumbai and Bangalore. Other metros like Chennai, Pune and Delhi are also trying to catch up. Such beginnings are fewer in number, but are no doubt a welcome change.

At some of these places, you need to sit inside the restaurant while your dog (unleashed or leashed) is placed comfortably in a patio. And a few of them can also serve treats, on your order, to your dog or cat. There are also some pet cafes which cater particularly to the needs of your furry sweetheart. For instance, a dog cafe will dish out healthy, sumptuous meals or treats to your Fido. Apart from food, games, grooming and training services might also be on offer.

Are they Important? Indeed!

Pet-friendly food joints provide a great means for a dog or cat to socialise with other pets, and to play. More such gathering, more will the chances of your pet becoming well-mannered and happier. This excursion will also help the dog burn its unutilised energy, sleep well and wake up refreshed. Besides cementing the bond that you have with your pet, such places also help you meet other pet loving people.

The trend of pet friendly cafes is quite prevalent in western countries; in India it is slowly picking up. There are some issues related to the training of dogs in India. It is said that not all pet dogs are properly trained.

There are things to be done at both ends – the consumer and the service provider. We need better trained dogs and more pet friendly places so we get to spend more time with our canine babies in today’s hectic life.