The most terrible thing about leaving home for higher studies was not being able to see and spend time with my dog everyday. Not coming home to him everyday after a tiring day of work certainly added to the stress and watching cute dog videos was the only antidote to my homesickness, until a year later, my hostel got in two Labrador puppies to introduce ‘pet therapy’ and reduce stress among students. While this worked wonders, a new pet friendly cafe also opened up nearby where I would see humans and pets enjoying their meals alike. I stay amazed at the growing infrastructure for pet leisure activities especially in the cities. From pet therapy to dog cafes, dog hostels, dog parks and even exclusive dog pools, I have heard numerous stories on how helpful and fun it is to try newer things with your pooches and there’s one organisation that combines it all together for your furry companion. The Fur Ball Story that launched as a pet therapy providers in 2016 just inaugurated their multi-cuisine cafe and pool in Gurgaon
Fur Ball Story was inspired by the role that dogs play in healing of humans, be it physical or mental and with their therapy dogs (4 golden retrievers (Angel, Hachi, Effy and Oreo), 1 Labrador (Muffin), 1 Shih-tzu (Cocoa), and 1 Indie (Zara), they aim to achieve exactly that. Indulging in Pet Assisted Activities, they launched Gurgaon’s first in-city dog cafe just 4 days ago where people can bring their pooches along for a hearty meal. It’s a multi cuisine restaurant which has a separate menu for dogs, specially curated by the best dog nutritionist in town - Rashee Kuchroo (founder of Doggie Dabbas). They also have a gorgeous 15 ft diameter pool where you can take the plunge with your dog. Pet Hydro therapy sessions with trained professionals are on offer as well.
One of the founders of The Fur Ball Story, 22-year-old Srishti Sharma says, “The idea behind the cafe, popped up because we have always wanted to take our dogs out with us. But given the strict conditions in India where there are hardly any places where your pooches can accompany you, we didn’t really have any other option. “
The multi cuisine restaurant with a cool casual ambiance done in white and brick red has a diverse menu with with a choice of burgers, pizza, pasta, salads and even Lebanese and Mexican, different kinds of Maggi (from masala to egg and chili), egg dishes and multi colored bubble waffles. For your furry companions there are variants of Veg, Mutton and Chicken with a choice of 3 dishes in each. Their popular dish Lo Mein Barking ( packed with the goodness of carrots & chicken/mutton/veggies) will leave your pooch drooling for more. Healthy variants include ‘Simply Barkalicious’, a diet friendly dish with Green beans to help keep your dog feeling full for a long time and thus aid in weight loss and the the Sloppy Boss, loved by 2 of their dogs Sloppy & Boss. The dish has white gourd helps provide vital nutrients & dill helps to keep the dish light & fresh. They use a lot of pumpkin and carrots in their dog dishes, as its healthy as well as delicious.
The cost for two of the cafe is Rs 800, while the charges for the pool are Rs 300 per hour. Fur Ball also provides 24 hours dog boarding facility, the cost of which ranges between 799 to 899, depending on the size and breed. Their services also come in packages.
The cafe is located at Golf Course Road, Gurgaon. For more details, check out their website here.
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