Furry Festivities: Pet Events and Updates 2024

In late 2024, India's pet community had a busy season: Uber's pet-friendly rides reached Bangalore, and cities from Pune to Delhi hosted pet meetups ahead of Pet Fed Bengaluru on 23 and 24 November 2024. This is a roundup of what was announced and scheduled at the time, plus advice on how to enjoy pet events in the future. Dates below are the 2024 dates, so check organisers for current events.

Pet news from 2024

Uber for pets

A pet-friendly ride-hailing option, Uber Pet, was introduced in Bangalore. It lets pet parents book rides designed for travelling with their pets, with a stress-free experience in mind. It is useful for social events or trips where driving yourself is not practical. Availability can change, so check the app for your city.

Pet events in India, late 2024

Here are the events that were listed, with dates and venues as published at the time.

1. Pune Catapalooza: 20 October 2024, Cafe From the Tree, Koregaon Park, Pune. A celebration for cat lovers, with fun activities, games and a chance to meet fellow cat enthusiasts.
2. Jaipur Pupper Party: 20 October 2024, The Big Tree Cafe, Ajmer Road, Jaipur. A party for dog owners, with games and chances for dogs to socialise.
3. Bengaluru Pre Party to Pet Fed, Kitty Edition: 27 October 2024, Hungry Hippie, Koramangala, Bengaluru. A pre-party for cat lovers, with kitty-themed activities and a chance to meet other cat parents.
4. Delhi Pre Party to Pet Fed, Doggo Edition: 27 October 2024, Zuri Cafe & Stay, Gurugram, Delhi. A gathering of dog lovers with games and networking.
5. Pet Fed Bengaluru: 23 and 24 November 2024, Jayamahal Palace, Bengaluru. One of India's largest pet carnivals, with stalls, activities, competitions and an adoption drive.
6. Pet adoption drives: various shelters and pet stores across India. Many shelters were expected to host adoption drives over Christmas, leading up to the new year, a good chance to meet a new furry friend.

How to enjoy a pet event

• Check the rules first. Look at the organiser's page for entry rules, tickets, and whether your pet can attend.
• Go early. Arriving before the crowd gives your pet time to settle and explore.
• Keep a leash on. A secure leash or carrier and an ID tag with your number are the basics at any crowded event.
• Know your pet's limits. Crowds, noise and unfamiliar animals can overwhelm some pets, especially cats. Plan a quiet corner or an early exit.
• Carry the basics. A water bowl, towel, poop bags and a mat for your pet to rest on.
• Ask before saying hello. Not every pet wants to meet strangers, so ask owners before letting your pet greet theirs.
• Keep it short. An hour or two is often enough for a first event.

Why pet events are worth going to

Pet events bring together people who share your love for animals. You can meet other pet parents, swap tips, find local trainers and shelters and let your pet enjoy a new setting. Smaller meetups at cafes are a gentle way to start, while a large carnival is better once your pet is confident around crowds.

Shopping at event stalls

Stalls are fun, but a little planning helps. Decide what you need before you go, such as a new collar, a leash or a toy. Check stitching and fastenings, make sure gear is the right size for your pet and avoid buying anything your pet cannot use safely. For ideas that last, see our gifts and lifestyle hub.

After the event

Give your pet a quiet evening. A big day out can be tiring, so let them rest in their usual spot. If they seemed stressed, make the next outing shorter or quieter, and note which parts your pet enjoyed most, so you can plan the next outing even better.

Thinking of adopting?

Adoption drives are a lovely way to meet animals who need homes, but a new pet is a long commitment. Talk it over with your whole family, think about your space, routine and budget, and visit more than once before you decide. Our guides on unethical breeding and the joy of owning a pet can help, and the new pet parent hub covers the first steps.

Travelling to an event with your pet

If you book a pet-friendly ride, tell the driver about your pet in advance, keep your pet on a leash or in a secure carrier and carry a towel. For road trips, read how to make your pet car friendly. For more ideas for days out, see top dog-friendly activities in India and the pet-friendly places hub.

Frequently asked questions

What was Pet Fed Bengaluru 2024?

One of India's largest pet carnivals, held on 23 and 24 November 2024 at Jayamahal Palace, Bengaluru, with stalls, activities, competitions and an adoption drive.

Were there events for cat lovers?

Yes. Pune Catapalooza and the Bengaluru Pre Party to Pet Fed, Kitty Edition, were both listed for October 2024.

How can I find current pet events?

Check the organiser's website, such as petfed.org, and follow local shelters and pet cafes for announcements.

Is Uber Pet available everywhere?

It was announced for Bangalore. Check the app for your city.

These events show how the pet community in India keeps growing, and how much responsible pet ownership matters. Celebrate your pet all year round.

By Team Stepevoli.