Love pets? Attend these two unique events in Mumbai that combine fun and furry friends

What happens when artistic ambitions meet curious cats or yoga mats become a playground for puppies Pawga cofounded by Sinduja Krishnakumar and Subhashree M is an experimental adoption drive for animals Through creative animalfriendly activities the initiative connects people with pets seeking homes while giving the animals a chance to socialise and bond with humansIts upcoming Mumbai sessions this weekend pair Halloweenthemed pumpkin painting with feline company and a beginnerfriendly yoga class featuring shelter dogsSinduja Krishnakumar Pics CourtesyCat Cafe studio PAWGAPumpkin spice and purrsAt this preHalloween pumpkinpainting session participants can decorate pumpkin cutouts as cats and kittens pad around inspect the brushes and perhaps supervise the artwork Fancy a ghoulish grin a luminous orange creation or an enigmatic blackcat design Let your imagination run wild Paints and supplies will be provided so there is no need to bring an art kit or professional skillsThe felines from shelters and foster homes are looking for permanent families Meeting visitors gives them an opportunity to become familiar with people beyond their usual surroundings For cats that have had limited individual attention such gentle encounters can encourage socialisation and help potential adopters get a better sense of their personalitiesldquoAll our activities are handpicked and curated to be petsaferdquo says Krishnakumar With curious noses and wandering paws nearby your artistic process might attract some extra scrutiny Bring your creative instincts leave room for feline mischief and see whether your pumpkin earns a passing inspection from its fourlegged audienceON October 17 11 am to noonAT Cat Cafeacute Studio Harminder Singh Road Versova Andheri West LOG ON TO pawgapetsyogacomCOST Rs 1270 onwardsBow wows with yogaParticipants practise yoga while a puppy plays around themYoga mats are out the instructor is ready but these cute canines have no intention of following a routine Pawgarsquos beginnerfriendly session combines a professionalled yoga flow with shelter dogs roaming freely around participants Expect gentle stretches and mindful movement rather than complicated poses No prior yoga experience is needed and the dogs are free to move around at their own pace instead of being lifted into positions or expected to performThe session is designed to be a cheerful break for people and a positive experience for the animals too ldquoSpending time with puppies can lift peoplersquos moods ease stress and help with emotional releaserdquo says Krishnakumar She adds that dogs can also experience anxiety and distress when isolated making opportunities for social interaction valuable for their wellbeing Meeting participants in a relaxed environment can help them grow more comfortable around humans while giving prospective adopters a chance to connect with themA sprightly canine might trot past your mat just as you settle into a stretch or pause for a sniff while you try to hold your balance Let the instructor guide your movements and the dogs set their own pace After all the idea is not to master every pose but to enjoy a relaxed hour in good company with a few wagging tails around youON October 18 4 pm to 5 pmAT The Community Studio Main Avenue Road Santacruz WestLOG ON TO pawgapetsyogacomENTRY Rs 1270