Pet lovers and pets alike are making a beeline to Noida, to attend what is perhaps the first-of-its-kind event in south Asia — the 3rd India International Pet Trade Fair. Apart from sixty pet product companies that are showcasing the latest accessories, health care products, toys and food items, there’re a number of interactive sessions on offer.
“The idea is to give a platform to traders and to create awareness among consumers at the same time,” says event director Binoy Sahee. “The market for pet products is growing at 15-20% annually but there has never been anything of this sort [till now],” he adds.
One of the main draws of the fair seems to be the adoption corner featuring breeder-raised dogs, cats, fish and birds. For each pet you buy, a number of street dogs stand to benefit — the organisers will vaccinate all the stray dogs in your locality for one year, for free.
There will also be shows by dogs from the Indian Air Force, a seminar on fish keeping as a hobby, a grooming centre to teach owners about basic pet hygiene and a chance to interact with a vet.
But what’s a pet fair without the furry creatures themselves? Visitors are being encouraged to bring their pets along with them. Stalls are offering them free food samples and there are bowls of water for them to quench their thirst. What more could any pet ask for?
{{/usCountry}}But what’s a pet fair without the furry creatures themselves? Visitors are being encouraged to bring their pets along with them. Stalls are offering them free food samples and there are bowls of water for them to quench their thirst. What more could any pet ask for?
{{/usCountry}}IIPTF 2009 is on at Expocentre Noida, A-11, Sector-62 NH-24, from 10 am to 6 pm, till February 1. Entry: Rs 30 for adults, Rs 20 for children.