The Dog and Cat Show-2026, organised for the first time in Belagavi city by the zilla panchayat in association with the district animal husbandry and veterinary services department, received an encouraging response from the public on Monday. About 325 dogs representing 25 breeds and 78 cats from nine breeds took part in the event. Displays highlighting the dogs’ skills, obedience, and affection drew considerable attention from visitors.
Inaugurating the show at Sardar Maidan, public works minister Satish Jarkiholi said that the love and loyalty of dogs are unmatched. He described dogs as trustworthy animals who will not harm anyone if treated with confidence and care. He added that while awareness about dogs is increasing, problems arise due to dog infestation, and stressed that, along with showing them love, people should allow animals to live alongside humans.
MLA Raju, who presided over the programme, said dogs are people-friendly and play an important role in reducing crime. He noted that domesticated dogs work with loyalty and that if people treat them with love and trust, it would be easier to coexist with animals. He also said animal lovers and the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department should work together to create greater awareness.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, ZP CEO Rahul Sindhe, Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase, SP K Ramarajan, and Animal Husbandry Department DD Dr Anand Patil were present.
The show featured adult dogs across breeds such as Mudhol Hound, Labrador, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Beagle, Siberian Husky, Rajapalayam, Maltese, Chihuahua, Dalmatian, Pug, Dachshund, Dobermann, Boxer, Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Pit Bull, Pomeranian, Lhasa Apso, Cocker Spaniel, Great Dane and other local breeds, with 325 dogs from 25 breeds participating. Among cats, nine breeds, including Indian Mau, Persian, Himalayan, Siamese, and local breeds, took part. Thousands of animal lovers attended the event.
