Pet Fed 2024 celebrated the unconditional love between pets and their owners, creating unforgettable memories and promoting adoption, writes SAKSHI PRIYA

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” Anatole France’s profound words perfectly capture the essence of Pet Fed 2024, India’s largest pet festival. The event celebrated the special bond between pets and their owners, a connection built on trust, affection and unconditional love. Held at the NSIC Grounds in Okhla, New Delhi, the festival offered a spectacular experience for animal lovers, filling the air with joy and excitement. It wasn’t just a gathering; it was a celebration of pets, especially dogs, who truly shone as the stars of the show.

Pet Fed 2024, an annual highlight for pet lovers, buzzed with energy from start to finish. The venue was transformed into a world of fun, excitement and admiration for animals. Pets strutted around in custom outfits, many of them dressed as if for a Christmas getaway, complete with Santa hats and reindeer antlers. It was a sight to behold as dogs like Bella, Leo, Goofy, Sheeru and Noddy pranced by, each one adding its own personality to the event. The joy and love shared between the pets and their owners was evident, making it impossible not to smile.

Inside the venue, the atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter as people chatted, took photos and enjoyed the moment with their pets. The hall was a runway of fashionable dogs, each outfit designed to showcase the personalities of the pets and their owners. It felt like a holiday celebration where pets were treated with the love and attention they deserve.

However, Pet Fed 2024 was about celebrating the deep bond between pets and their families. The festival featured masterclasses on pet health, nutrition and grooming, offering valuable advice for pet parents. These sessions helped owners ensure the best care for their furry companions. The event also included dedicated play areas and agility rings for dogs and cats to exercise and show off their skills. The agility ring, in particular, was a hit, with pets darting through obstacles and jumping with excitement, providing a thrilling experience for both pets and their parents.

One of the standout segments of the festival was Catapalooza, an event organised in association with the Cat Club of India, designed specifically for cats. This segment celebrated all cat breeds and included fun activities and competitions. Cats and their owners participated in games, with participants vying for trophies and certificates. It was a joyous experience for everyone involved, showcasing the fun side of feline companionship.

The festival also placed a strong emphasis on pet adoption. Adoption camps were set up to encourage families to adopt rather than shop, in line with the #AdoptDontShop mantra. The festival partnered with NGOs to find loving homes for animals in needs and it was heartwarming to see so many pets finding their forever homes. Several adoption stories unfolded during the event, highlighting the festival’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of animals.

For those seeking some friendly competition, Pet Fed offered engaging contests and activities. The Official Pet Fed Premier League Award Ceremony was a crowd favourite, while other events like Temptation Alley and Bug Buster had everyone cheering for their furry friends. Day 2 of the festival included even more thrilling events, such as Trick Roulette, Kibble Craze and the Security Dog Show. But the true highlight of the day was India’s Biggest Pet Fashion Show, where pets and their owners walked the ramp in coordinated outfits, creating a spectacle that was unforgettable.

As I walked through the venue, I was captivated by the wide range of activities designed to keep pets entertained. The retail area, featuring over 100 stalls, offered pet parents the chance to shop for the latest products, accessories and food. From high-end pet clothing to innovative toys, there was something for every pet and every budget. The food and beverage stalls ensured that pet parents could relax and enjoy the event while their furry companions stayed by their side.

One of the most touching elements of Pet Fed 2024 was its inclusivity. Indie pets, often overlooked, were given special attention with free entry for their parents. This gesture was a beautiful reminder of how important it is to support the adoption of all pets, regardless of breed. It was a sentiment that resonated deeply with attendees, showing that the festival wasn’t just about fun, but also about creating a compassionate world for animals.

Akshay Gupta, the Founder of Pet Fed, shared his excitement about the event, saying, “Wrapping up the 10th edition in Delhi has been an incredible experience. The love and support from Delhiites, along with the growing awareness about pet adoption, have been truly heartwarming. This event has shown us the deep bond that exists between pets and their parents, and it’s a privilege to create a platform that celebrates this connection.”

Pet Fed 2024 was a heartwarming celebration of the unconditional love our pets give us every day. It reminded us that animals, like art, have the power to inspire, bring joy and change our lives in ways we never imagined. The event created beautiful memories, showcasing the enduring bond between pets and their families. Most importantly, it carried a meaningful message, #AdoptDontShop, encouraging everyone to give a second chance to animals in need, reminding us that love is the best gift we can offer.