February celebrates relationships in all their forms, and some of the most meaningful ones don’t involve humans at all. The bond between pets and their owners is pure, instinctive, and healing in ways we often don’t put into words. This month, we spotlight the stories where wagging tails and soft purrs have shaped lives and brought everyday joy. Meet Pooja Oscar Sharma: Where Fitness, Compassion, and Dogs Collide Pooja Oscar Sharma, health and fitness coach and MTV Roadies alumna, never imagined that dogs would become such a defining part of her life. Enter Oscar, her grumpy yet loving golden retriever, and Karma, the mischievous younger sibling. Together, they transformed from companions into family, and inspired the creation of Oscar & Karma, an awareness-first platform dedicated to adoption, ethical care, and responsible pet ownership in India. How would you describe the bond you share with your pets, and what joys and challenges come with being their caregiver?Oscar & Karma began as a space to share what I was learning about my dogs. Over time, it became an awareness platform connecting people to the personalities, quirks, and sibling bond of Oscar and Karma. The joys are endless, the unconditional love, the little moments, and the growth we experience together. The challenges are real, too, especially in India, where understanding a dog’s needs, emotions, and welfare is limited. Compassion often comes last. How did this journey evolve beyond your pets to a larger community?As I learned more, I realized the harsh realities of breeding, neglect, and cruelty in India. Oscar & Karma now stands for fostering, helping dogs in need, supporting community animals, and promoting environmental responsibility. Every initiative is inspired by Oscar and the desire to make a difference in the world they, and we, live in. What does running Oscar &

Here are some of the latest pet accessories trending in India products that are becoming “must-haves” for pet owners due to comfort, health, safety, and innovative features. Smart & Tech-Enabled Products India’s urban pet parents are increasingly turning to technology to manage busy lifestyles while ensuring their pets’ safety and well-being. GPS trackers and smart collars allow real-time location tracking, activity monitoring, and even health insights such as sleep and calorie burn particularly useful in gated communities and independent houses. App controlled feeders and water fountains are gaining traction among working professionals, enabling portion control, scheduled feeding, and constant access to fresh water, even during long workdays or short trips away from home. Health & Comfort Accessories With rising awareness around preventive pet healthcare, comfort-driven products are no longer optional luxuries. Orthopaedic beds, often made with memory foam, are popular among senior dogs and large breeds prone to joint issues. At the same time, cooling mats address the harsh Indian summers by regulating body temperature without electricity. Smart grooming tools, including electric brushes and de-shedding devices, help maintain coat health at home reducing salon visits and supporting hygiene in high-shedding seasons. Interactive Toys & Enrichment Mental stimulation has become a key focus area for modern pet parenting. Motion-activated toys and treat-dispensing puzzles are widely adopted to combat boredom, destructive behaviour, and separation anxiety especially in apartment living. These products encourage problem-solving and physical movement, helping pets stay engaged when left alone. Indian consumers are also showing interest in durable, safe materials that can withstand aggressive chewing. Travel & Outdoor Gear As more Indians travel with their pets by car, train, or even air travel-friendly accessories are in high demand. Foldable bowls, portable water bottles, and car harnesses make road trips safer and more convenient, while well-ventilated travel carriers and backpacks

Diwali is a festival of lights, joy, and togetherness but while we celebrate with crackers and festivities, our furry friends often experience stress, fear, and anxiety. Loud noises, bright flashes, and sudden bursts of sound can be overwhelming for pets, making it essential to plan and keep them safe. Here are some vet-approved tips and pet parent experiences to ensure your dogs and cats enjoy a stress-free Diwali. 5 Essential Diwali Safety Tips for Pets 1. Create a Safe Space Set up a cozy, quiet room with curtains drawn and familiar items like their bed, toys, and a water bowl. Playing soft, calming music or white noise can help mask the sound of crackers. 2. Use Distraction Techniques Engage your pets with games, new chew toys, or treat puzzles to keep them entertained. Keeping them occupied is a great way to reduce their attention to outside noises. 3. Desensitize Them to Noises Well before Diwali, play recordings of crackers at a low volume while rewarding them with treats. Gradually increase the sound over time to help them build tolerance. 4. Avoid Dressing Them Up Unnecessarily While festive outfits may look cute, some fabrics can cause discomfort or restrict movement in pets. Opt for breathable, lightweight, pet-safe accessories instead. 5. Consult Your Vet if Needed For pets with extreme anxiety, consult your veterinarian. They may suggest calming sprays, supplements, or other safe solutions. Pet Parents Share Their Diwali Safety Tips Deepika Malani & GoofyGoofy, 1-year-old Maltipoo “Keep your pet in a quiet, comfortable room with the curtains drawn and some soft music playing. It helps mask the sound of crackers and reduces their stress.” Kavita Rao with Max & TykeMax – Beagle, 5 years, Tyke – French Bulldog, 2 years “At least a week before the fireworks begin, I regularly play

Why should humans have all the fun at weddings? From bow-tie collars to couture gowns, pet wedding fashion has taken a glamorous turn in 2025 and your furry friend is now ready to walk down the aisle (or lawn) in style. Whether they’re the ring bearer, flower pup, or simply the cutest guest, dogs are stealing the show in outfits made just for them. The Rise of Canine Couture Weddings today are more than a union of two peopl they’re a celebration of families, pets included. Couples are involving their dogs in ceremonies, photoshoots, and even entrances. Naturally, this means dressing them in wedding-appropriate outfits that balance charm, comfort, and personality. Tailored for the Occasion The options are endless. Think breathable tuxedo harnesses for formal receptions, breezy cotton bandanas for outdoor vows, pastel bow-ties and floral collars that match the décor, and even customised sherwanis or lehengas for cultural celebrations. These outfits are no longer just cute they’re designed with thoughtful details like hidden harness loops, detachable accessories, and soft linings to keep pets happy through long festivities. When Fashion Meets Fun Couples are using pet outfits as a way to tie their furry friend into the wedding theme. Imagine a dog in a hand-embroidered lehenga scattering petals, or a miniature capelet for the ring bearer that mirrors the groom’s sherwani. The best ensembles not only match the aesthetic but also let the dog’s personality shine be it regal, playful, or sweetly understated. Tips for Dressing Your Dog for a Wedding Comfort First: Lightweight, non-restrictive fabrics prevent overheating. Test Run: Let them wear the outfit before the big day to get used to it. Weather Wise: Breathable cottons for heat, soft insulation for cold. Safety Matters: Avoid loose embellishments or choking hazards. Less Can Be More: Sometimes a floral collar