Recent studies posted on the internet lead us to believe that pet ownership (and this is
particularly true of dogs, with cats a close second) is on the rise. It is
believed that there is an average of two ‘owners’ per dog, suggesting that the
pet-owning population is sizeable. However, there are still many no-go areas as
far as pets are concerned. Many establishments don’t allow the passage of pets
onto the premises. Some often have the viewpoint that dogs have their place,
which does not mean full integration with human society. Fortunately, there are
places in Goa that are rapidly changing their approach to accommodate man’s
furry friends.
Mangaal Farmstay in Quepem is one of those getaways that’s
designed for the new age traveller, who is more exploratory in nature. From
spiritual retreats that are rejuvenating and improve one’s well-being, to being
able to witness life on a working farm, in a rural environment, with healthy
food, there is much more to Mangaal than meets the eye. In keeping with their
spiritual and holistic sides of a vacation, the property allows…nay…insists
that pets come along.
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“We are animal lovers and know the importance and joy of owning
pets. You wouldn’t want your kids to be left behind when you’re travelling and
it’s the same for your pets, which is why we have opted to go the pet-friendly
way,” says Minakshi Singh, of Mangaal Farmstay.
And the open platform of a Tex-Mex setting does seem inviting,
whether you’re on two feet or four, which is exactly what Habanero in Baga
offers. “We wanted to create the vibe of an open Mexican hacienda. We have used
the natural fauna in the surroundings and added more to it. How could we not
keep this natural area pet friendly?” asks Rohan Ghotage, of Habanero.
The Chikoo Tree Project in Margao is one of the first endeavours
to have gone the pet-friendly route, in terms of having a section dedicated to
pets, apart from welcoming them to establishments. Here, things go as far as
pet-dedicated sections of the menu, so that for a change, owner’s can look on
in envy at their pet’s plates.
Anand Chatterjee, one of the individuals behind The Chikoo Tree
Project, shares his insight into the initiative, saying, “The Pet Café is a
first for Goa. You can savour healthy and wholesome food or a cup of coffee,
with your pets. There is a menu for pets too, made with freshest of
ingredients. On the basis of prior appointment, the café also has a grooming
facility on premises, run by industry professionals.”
A little research shows that there are other places too, in Goa,
that endorse pets being welcome. Some of these include the likes of Rocket
Burger in Vagator; Gunpowder, The D’Gamas and Ruta’s Roadhouse in Assagao;
Zeebop in Utorda; Firefly in Benaulim; Rustic Resort in Valpoi; Watson’s in
Panjim; Maracas in Porvorim; Mustard in Sangolda; Prainha by the Sea in Dona
Paula; Carpe Diem in Majorda; and Eden Kitchen and Bar in Candolim.
The
next time you want to go out, but are apprehensive of leaving your companion
behind, don’t be. There’s a whole host of places that you can go to in Goa,
apart from the even larger list of naturally available surroundings. Either
way, days are always more memorable when in the company of those that we love,
who love us in return; and there are very good odds that no one loves you more
than your pet.
