Ever been through the torture of a speed-dating session? You’d be right to assume it’s more miss than hit; though there can be those elusive diamonds in the rough. Curiously enough, Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) is taking that same approach with pet adoption this year, with a speed-dating style adoption drive at PetExpo 2018. Fourteen animal welfare groups will be participating, and bringing their precious pets to animal lovers looking to share their homes. And why not right, in this era of Tinder swipes and online dating? (As long as you don’t love ‘em and leave ‘em.)
The new drive is just one intriguing part of Singapore’s largest pet fair, which returns Apr 6-8 at the Singapore Expo (Hall 7). In its fifth edition, PetExpo will be bringing together vendors, local artists, and good ol’ beastly fun for pet lovers and owners everywhere. And while the speed-dating drive may seem a little off-putting to animal lovers, the fair’s primary focus remains to be pet wellness and welfare.
This includes a brand new fashion runway of doggie styles (pun fully intended), called “Good Dogs & People”. Curated by fashion personality Daniel Boey and responsible pet company Good Dog People, the showcase will model quirky dog fashion created by local creative personalities and labels such as Thomas Wee, ohpopdog and Carrie K. Part of the proceeds will go straight to animal welfare groups, to raise awareness on responsible dog ownership and encourage people to #AdoptNotShop.
Pet owners looking to spoil their babies can also look forward to the first-ever Made in SG Square—a mini bazaar featuring eight Singaporean pet businesses. Pick up anything from pet fashion pieces to wholesome pet foods and baked goods and treats. Outside these pet-preneurs, there are 60 other vendors to choose from.
In addition, there’s mummy-and-me style dog yoga (courtesy of Pawfully Fit) and talks by Ohana Vecare and Animal Ark, on weight management, pet healthcare and wellness. A host of pet shows and competitions will also be taking place then, including the annual Singapore Kennel Club (SKC) Grooming Examination and Competition.
Admission is $5 a day or $12 for a three-day pass, available here or at the door. All pets are welcome, but you might want to think about leaving nasty human animal-haters at home.
PetExpo 2018 is happening Apr 6-8 at the Singapore Expo Hall 7. More info here.
