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“Paws ‘n’ Friends” generates online buzz and real-world barks

27 September 2011 0 comments

As enthusiastic pet owners fussed over their cute pets, excited animal sounds (mostly of the four-legged kind) could be heard in response throughout Bishan Active Park on a clear Sunday afternoon in June.

The first pet carnival organised in Bishan North estate, Paws ‘n’ Friends was organised by the Youth Executive Committees (YECs) of Bishan North Community Centre (CC) and Toa Payoh Central CC. Drawing some 1,000 residents from around Singapore, it also generated much interest on Facebook and Twitter in the lead-up to the event. Besides boasting a line-up of interesting contests, talks and workshops, it was also the organiser’s approach to online publicity which contributed to its success.

Toa Payoh Central CC YEC and Bishan North CC YEC added to the sense of fun by launching three online photo contests. With categories for “Cutest Pet”, “Most Look-alike Owner & Pet” and “Best Dressed Pet” on the event’s Facebook page, pet owners were invited to upload their pet’s photos in a challenge to secure the most number of “likes”.  The photo contests received overwhelming support, with the photos viewed some 22,280 times.

“Since the launch of the Facebook event page on 12 May 2011, the number of “likes” has grown to more than 7,000 and is still growing,” remarked Ms Wong Pui Ling, 1st Vice-Chairperson of Toa Payoh Central CC YEC on their online outreach strategies.

The online interaction extended into the event itself as some 800 Facebook fans turned up on the actual day. All gamely took part in the various pet-related activities and made friends with people of similar interests. In addition, tips on how to better care for animals were also shared among the pet lovers. As the organisers also worked with the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, as well as various animal welfare organisations and merchandisers, there was also much for pet owners to learn.

Joining in the fun at the carnival was Grassroots Adviser Dr Ng Eng Hen, who is also Minister for Defence and Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.

Want to share more stories and tips with fellow pet lovers? Visit the Paws ‘n’ Friends Facebook page and be part of the pet loving community.

Find out more about the PAYM and the activities they organise on their website!

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