Macaws soared above as cats and dogs were comfortably seated in prams, paraded by their owners along The Kallang’s sheltered running track during the Good Pet Fair – Kampong Edition held over the weekend. The event took place on August 22 and 23 at the Great Eastern Promenade, an 888-meter loop that encircles the National Stadium in Singapore, temporarily drawing the attention of joggers to make way for pet enthusiasts.

Organized by The Kallang Group, which manages the venue, in collaboration with event organiser Good Fairs, the two-day fair featured more than 100 vendors and animal welfare groups. The various stalls offered a wide range of products, including pet treats, accessories, and other animal-related merchandise. Some pets, affectionately referred to as “furkids,” were equipped with portable fans to help them cope with the day’s heat.

The fair showcased an impressive variety of animals. While dogs and cats stole much of the spotlight, more unconventional creatures were also on display. Guinea pigs, tropical fish, and Madagascar hissing cockroaches were among the diverse fauna presented. Tiny Kingdom, a nature education and experience centre, hosted a booth that allowed visitors to observe ants and even handle leaf insects and hissing cockroaches, providing a hands-on experience with some of the smallest and most unusual pets.

Among the aquatic displays, the Guppy Club Singapore exhibited colorful guppies from both local and international breeders. This presentation was linked to Guppy Passion, a competition featuring 12 categories that ranged from solid-colored to mosaic-patterned guppies.

For those interested in larger animals, Gallop Stable provided an opportunity to interact with ponies, including grooming, riding, and feeding sessions.

One of the event’s highlights was a free-flying macaw demonstration conducted twice daily by members of Freedom Flyer, a local parrot enthusiast group. Invited to the event to showcase their vibrant birds, the group regularly meets across various parts of Singapore on weekends.

The closing day of the fair also saw a record-setting gathering of Shetland sheepdogs. A total of 146 Shelties attended, marking the largest congregation of this breed documented in the Singapore Book of Records. The dogs ranged widely in age, from a seven-month-old puppy to a senior canine aged 15 years.

According to Yazed Osman, group head of events, placemaking, and place management at The Kallang Group, the fair served as an opportunity for families, friends, and their animal companions to connect and enjoy shared spaces within the precinct. The event underscored the growing community interest in pet ownership and animal welfare.