NEW DELHI: The woof-woofs, ruff-ruffs and the bow-wow are going to get louder on December 18, as 3,000 dogs will come together to create a new Guinness World Record for the largest number of dogs wearing bandanas in one place, at one time.
A portion of the registration money raised from the event will go towards buying coats and beddings for 700 dogs this winter.
The current record stands at 764 dogs in Australia. “It’s the best way to highlight the cause of dogs this winter. Thousands of them die because of its severity of cold and nobody takes responsibility. Through this record, we’ll highlight the issue and making citizens cognisant of the present situation,” says Akshay Gupta, the founder of Pet Fed, one of the country’s largest pet festivals, under which this record is being set.
Part of the profits will go towards buying coats and bedding for street dogs. The aim is to secure 700 dogs this winter. As civic agencies struggle with providing shelter from the cold, Gupta has resolved to help as many as he can. “Delhi has between 2,60,000 and 4,00,000 stray dogs. The astonishing fact is that there is no consensus on the number of deaths due to cold. That makes the situation worse,” he says. Only when an exact number emerges, an concrete action can be taken, he feels.
The event will see more than 25,000 people, largely pet owners. That’s the double of last year. Each dog will be accompanied by its owners. “We have been managing thousands of dogs at one place for the past two years and we will do so easily this year too. With all the protocols in place, our team comprises more than 300 volunteers and professional trainers,” says Gupta.
In addition to the record this year, the number of dog-friendly activities have also doubled. There will be dog swings and rides, pet bakeries, and more than 100 stalls for pets and pet parents selling products and services. A Doggy Café, in partnership with Puppychino, serving everything from doggy beer to doggy pizzas will also be set up. Another highlight this year is the scientifically created art gallery for dogs.
“The artworks have been placed at their eye level and colours within their visual spectrum have been used. The paintings are of all the places where dogs aren’t currently allowed such as historical places, cafes and parks,” he shares.
Fashion Show for pets and games and contests are part of the canine carnival too.