Celebrating International Pet Day: India Embraces Compassion and Companionship

Pashu Sandesh, 11 April 2025

India celebrated International Pet Day with heartfelt enthusiasm. Communities across the nation came together to honour the bond between humans and their animal companions. The day was marked by adoption drives, awareness campaigns, and social media tributes, reflecting the country's growing commitment to animal welfare.

Madhuri Dixit Shares Heartwarming Moment With Her Pet

Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit joined the celebration by sharing a touching collage of photos with her adopted indie dog, Carmelo. In the images, she is cuddling Carmelo and posing alongside her husband, Dr. Shriram Nene. She captioned the post: “Times full of tail wags, quiet cuddles, and endless love. Happy Pet Day, Carmelo”.

A Longstanding Advocate for Animal Welfare

Madhuri Dixit's love for animals extends beyond her personal life. She has been a vocal advocate for pet adoption and animal rights. In 2019, she adopted Carmelo through PETA India and has since encouraged others to consider adopting pets from shelters or the streets. She has also participated in campaigns like NDTV's #FreedomForAll, promoting the humane treatment of animals.

Nationwide Celebrations Promote Pet Welfare

Across India, various events highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership. Animal shelters organized adoption events, veterinary clinics offered free check-ups, and educational institutions conducted workshops on pet care. Social media platforms were flooded with pet photos and stories, uniting pet lovers nationwide under hashtags like #InternationalPetDay and #PetsOfIndia.

A Growing Culture of Compassion

The celebrations underscored a significant shift in India's approach to animal welfare. With increasing awareness and advocacy, more people are embracing the responsibilities of pet ownership and the joys it brings. As Madhuri Dixit's example illustrates, compassion for animals is becoming an integral part of the national ethos.