Manav Mander Tribune News Service Ludhiana August 18 The pandemic-induced social isolation has led to a major boom in the sale of dogs especially small and lap dogs. With a surge in their demand their prices have also seen an upward trend. The stay-at-home period became an ideal time for many to bring home a dog. According to dog lovers and breeders the cost of pure bred and designer dogs has gone up considerably in the past one year. Breeds like Beagle Shih Tzu Pug Dachshund Chihuahua etc are now costing double the price. A dog breeder based in Samrala said in 2020 many breeders had put the breeding programmes on hold with uncertainty all around. “But as time progressed we saw the demand of dogs picking up because people were locked in their homes kids wanted company and there were no holidays. The demand for small dogs has increased as it is suitable and comfortable for people living in flats and apartments” he said. A pet shop owner from Model Town said the prices of dogs had doubled since last year. “A Beagle pup was sold between Rs 10000-15000 earlier but now it is being sold for around Rs 20000-22000. Shih Tzu which was earlier priced at Rs 35000 is now being sold at Rs 50000” he said. Amarbeer a mother of two said her kids starting having major behavioural issues as they had no company at home. “Although I am working from home but I cannot devote much time to them and since they are not going to schools or anywhere outside we brought home a dog for them. Now they are busy taking care of him and managing his routine. They wanted a big dog but since we live in a rented accommodation and do not have much space so we bought a Shih Tzu. Within our circle of Mobile pet grooming vans do brisk business With people not able to go out much due to the pandemic a couple of mobile pet grooming vans kick-started their operations during Covid-19. “It is very convenient as all services are delivered at the doorstep and one need not to step out. I call the van every month and my pets grooming is done in one visit” said Bhavika a pet owner.

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