Puppy Playdates or Ethical Concerns? Rethinking ’Puppy Yoga’
Table of Contents
- 1. Puppy Playdates or Ethical Concerns? Rethinking ’Puppy Yoga’
- 2. A Clash of Values: Yoga and Animal Welfare
- 3. Global movement Towards Change
- 4. Organizers Respond and Rethink Approach
- 5. A Call for Responsible Interactions with Animals
- 6. Considering the core principles of yoga and the potential for harm to the puppies, can “puppy yoga” or similar events ever truly be ethical?
- 7. Puppy Playdates or Ethical Concerns? Rethinking ‘Puppy Yoga’
- 8. Interview with Reha Kumar, Award-Winning Yoga Educator
- 9. Reha, you’ve been vocal about the ethical concerns surrounding “puppy yoga” events. Can you elaborate on your position?
- 10. Beyond the disruption to the practice itself, what are your concerns about the impact on the puppies?
- 11. “Puppy yoga” isn’t just a New Zealand phenomenon. what are your thoughts on the global response to this trend, including bans in Italy and advisories from the RSPCA in the UK?
- 12. Organizers of “puppy yoga” events in Auckland have recently modified their approach, changing the name to “Paws & Stretch” and emphasizing a focus on mindful movement rather than yoga. Do you think this is a step in the right direction?
- 13. What message would you like to share with animal lovers who are considering attending events like “Paws & Stretch”?
- 14. Do you think “puppy yoga” or similar events can ever truly be ethical? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Recent events in Auckland have sparked a debate about the ethics of combining yoga with puppies, prompting organizers to reconsider their approach. Initially advertised as “ethical puppy yoga,” the sessions, scheduled to take place at the Ponsonby Community Center in March, drew criticism from yoga practitioners and animal welfare advocates.
A Clash of Values: Yoga and Animal Welfare
Award-winning yoga educator Reha Kumar voiced her concerns, stating, ”As yoga teachers, most of us recognise that combining yoga with puppies bred for these purposes is unethical.” She explained that incorporating animals into yoga contradicts its core principles. “The essence of yoga is to still the fluctuations of the mind,” she said. “If you consciously bring a puppy, wich is there to distract, it takes away from the practice.”
Kumar also emphasized the potential for harm to the puppies involved. “One of the core values of yoga is ahimsa, or non-harm,” she said.”In many cases, animals are reportedly stressed or harmed during such sessions, and we don’t have regulations governing these practices.”
Global movement Towards Change
Concerns about puppy yoga extend beyond New zealand. in Italy, the Ministry of Health banned puppy yoga in 2024, permitting only adult dogs in these settings.Similarly, the UK’s Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) advised against puppy yoga in 2023, citing welfare concerns.
Alison Vaughan, a scientific officer at the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), echoed these concerns. “SPCA is concerned about the welfare of puppies involved in puppy yoga classes due to the increasing prevalence and lack of regulation of these sessions,” she said.
Vaughan explained that while early socialization is crucial for puppies, yoga sessions coudl inadvertently expose them to overwhelming environments, inappropriate handling, and inadequate care. “In these classes,young puppies are often passed between multiple participants,sometimes picked up while sleeping or trying to retreat,” she said. “This can cause stress, exhaustion or even illness.”
Organizers Respond and Rethink Approach
In response to the public outcry, korgi Kennels NZ, the organizer of the events, announced a change in their branding, moving away from the term “yoga” to “Paws & Stretch.” A spokesperson for Korgi Kennels NZ stated that their intention was never to focus on yoga but rather to create a space for slow, mindful movement where people could safely interact with puppies. Thay emphasized their commitment to animal welfare, following strict regulations and best practices.
A Call for Responsible Interactions with Animals
Kumar encourages animal lovers to engage with animals in ethical and responsible ways. “You can volunteer at shelters, attend SPCA adoption events and do your research before participating in any movement session involving animals,” she said.
This debate highlights the importance of thoughtful consideration when combining animals with human activities. As our society becomes increasingly aware of animal welfare, it’s crucial to prioritize ethical practices and ensure the well-being of our furry companions.
Considering the core principles of yoga and the potential for harm to the puppies, can “puppy yoga” or similar events ever truly be ethical?
Puppy Playdates or Ethical Concerns? Rethinking ‘Puppy Yoga’
Interview with Reha Kumar, Award-Winning Yoga Educator
Recent events in Auckland have sparked a hot debate around the ethics of combining yoga with puppies, prompting organizers to rethink their approach. We spoke with award-winning yoga educator Reha Kumar to delve deeper into this complex issue.
Reha, you’ve been vocal about the ethical concerns surrounding “puppy yoga” events. Can you elaborate on your position?
“As yoga teachers, most of us recognize that combining yoga with puppies bred for these purposes is unethical. Incorporating animals into yoga contradicts its core principles. The essence of yoga is to still the fluctuations of the mind. If you consciously bring a puppy, which is there to distract, it takes away from the practice.”
Beyond the disruption to the practice itself, what are your concerns about the impact on the puppies?
“One of the core values of yoga is ahimsa, or non-harm. In many cases, animals are reportedly stressed or harmed during these sessions, and we don’t have regulations governing these practices. Puppies are frequently enough passed between multiple participants, sometimes picked up while sleeping or trying to retreat. This can cause stress, exhaustion, or even illness.”
“Puppy yoga” isn’t just a New Zealand phenomenon. what are your thoughts on the global response to this trend, including bans in Italy and advisories from the RSPCA in the UK?
“It’s encouraging to see that organizations worldwide are recognizing the potential for harm in these types of events.Early socialization is crucial for puppies, but yoga sessions could inadvertently expose them to overwhelming environments, inappropriate handling, and inadequate care. We need clear guidelines and regulations to ensure animals are protected.”
Organizers of “puppy yoga” events in Auckland have recently modified their approach, changing the name to “Paws & Stretch” and emphasizing a focus on mindful movement rather than yoga. Do you think this is a step in the right direction?
“It’s a positive step that organizers are reconsidering their approach and acknowledging the ethical concerns. Though, it’s crucial to ensure that ‘Paws & Stretch’ events prioritize the well-being of the puppies above all else. This means minimizing handling, providing ample space and rest breaks, and only working with reputable breeders who prioritize ethical practices.”
“Engage with animals in ethical and responsible ways. Volunteer at shelters, attend SPCA adoption events, and do your research before participating in any movement session involving animals.Remember,their well-being should always be our top priority.”
