Pawasana: Fostering Love for Rescued Pups

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Animal activists, dog lovers and compassionate advocates have long been spreading the word for the adoption of dogs rather than purchasing them. However, the decision to adopt a pet is not one to be taken lightly or hastily. Prospective pet owners need to familiarize themselves with the responsibilities of owning a pet, including the time and resources required. In an inspiring endeavor to encourage the adoption of rescued Indie pups, Annanya Nautiyal and Anwar Khan, two compassionate individuals who rescue puppies alongside their professional commitments, have launched an extraordinary initiative called ‘Pawasana’.

founders of Pawasana — *Founders of Pawasana, Anwar Khan and Annanya Nautiyal*

At the core of this initiative, as the name suggests, are unique Yoga sessions featuring Indie puppies. Annanya elaborates, “A usual session accommodates an average of 20-25 participants. A professional yoga instructor, who is also an avid dog lover, leads each session. We ensure there are 6-7 Indie puppies present, receiving the much-needed affectionate cuddles from humans to prevent them from feeling depressed. Moreover, these sessions serve as an educational platform, enlightening people about Indie dogs. The pups are vaccinated and our dedicated volunteers diligently oversee the treatment and care of the puppies during the sessions”

Through Pawasana, puppies from colonies, foster homes, and shelters find loving homes. Spending time with these adorable pups motivates people to consider adopting Indie dogs. However, the adoption process is thorough and stringent. Prospective adopters are required to fill out a form, followed by a video call to assess their suitability and learn about their family and living environment. Annanya emphasizes, “We ensure everyone in the family is onboard with the idea of adoption to minimize the chances of abandonment in the future. We also conduct follow-ups in the first few months after adoption to ensure the well-being of the puppies. Acquiring a pet should never be an impulsive decision; it demands careful thought and proper registration.”

Expanding beyond Yoga sessions, Pawasana now offers activities such as painting with pups. A portion of the funds raised from these events is allocated to various dog welfare initiatives, including providing food, vaccinations, medical treatments, and donations to shelters. Annanya envisions a future where Indie cats are also included in the initiative, with new experiments, activities and programs. “While the sessions primarily feature dogs and cats, the funds raised are dedicated to providing assistance to animals of all kinds, ranging from cows to monkeys, and any creature in need”, shares Annanya. The founders aspire to establish their own shelter in due course.

Currently organizing events in cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, Gurgaon, Mumbai, and Kolkata, Pawasana aims to expand its reach not just across the country but globally as well. By blending the serenity of activities such as yoga and painting with the charm of puppies, the initiative strives to create awareness, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards the Indie dogs, while also inspiring more adoptions for these furry beings.