Sign up your pets for some weekend TLC

Weekends with pets are becoming more active and intentional, moving beyond routine walks to a mix of drives, café visits, swimming sessions and curated dining. With Pets’ Day on Saturday, explore new ways to spend time together while keeping your pet’s comfort in mind. Rio swimming at Pet Dreamland Simple joys, strong bondsEven as new experiences emerge, simple routines define weekends. For Sanglap Bose, a business professional and rower, mornings with Rio begin early. “I take him out for a drive to the Maidan,” he says, adding, “We usually go before 9am, as the humidity gets intense later.” Water-based activities are gaining traction. “Swimming is one of the most enriching and low-impact activities for dogs. Each session is safe and stress-free, with trained attendants,” adds Anugruhita Bardhan, owner of Wagtime. For many, simplicity endures. “My fave activity is walking away and calling her name, only to see her come running to me,” says Beas Ghosh, who has five dogs. A new kind of pet diningDining with pets is evolving into a more thoughtful format in the city. There’s growing curiosity around curated, supper-style experiences designed for pets – intimate, controlled settings focused on nutrition and comfort. For Paulami Ganguly, a pet entrepreneur who has co-founded MangoLicks, a supper club – alongside her Golden Retriever Mango – the idea is as personal as it is practical. “The idea is essentially a four-course meal tailored for dogs,” she says, with dishes ranging from bone-broth drinks to rice-based meals. What sets these apart is the pace, limited slots, hygiene, and a setting. Mango, however, remains particular. “He’s a bit of a snob, he enjoys café outings more than open fields.” Smart tips for pet outingsStep out early to avoid heat and humidityLet your pet’s comfort decide the planBalance social outings with quiet downtimeCarry familiar food and essentialsEase pets into new environments graduallyKeep routines consistentInclude them in everyday outings like drivesFocus on undistracted bonding time Pet-friendly cafés on the riseCafés across Kolkata are becoming part of weekend routines for pet parents. “Most visitors already know we’re pet-friendly,” says Abhisruti Dutta, owner of Mrs. Wilson's Cafe , adding that dogs sit in the balcony while cats, are indoors. Menus are evolving, and visits are often more relaxed when with pets. Kavita Shaw, a homemaker keeps it “simple but meaningful” with playtime, treats, and quiet routines. She notes that pets are now increasingly included in outings. Ati Shaw, a corporate professional calls it “intentional time” with walks, meals, and outings, adding carriers help cats feel secure. Even quieter pets who observe first, and then decide – the shift towards flexible, pet-friendly spaces are welcome.