Puppy Yoga: Class with Dogs Encourages Adoption and Improves Quality of Life
The creator, Dani Barssalos, shared all the adorable details of this new idea in an interview.
By Gabriele Tancredo Stella in Animal World
Have you ever imagined taking a yoga class surrounded by adorable dogs and cats? This experience not only offers an enchanting moment, but also contributes to your well-being. This idea, which may seem like something out of a movie, is completely real! Discover the Puppy Yoga project, created by Dani Barssalos in São Paulo, Brazil, who shared all the details of this incredible initiative with Amo Meu Pet (our Brazilian website about pet news).
Dani had a completely new approach to yoga in mind when she created Puppy Yoga. Soon after opening her yoga studio in March this year, she realized the need to introduce something different to her practice.
“I already knew Puppy Yoga existed in other countries, but I hadn’t seen it yet. So I brought it here—with the goal of encouraging adoption,” she explains.
As soon as the first class launched, the project was an instant success. Many people were eager to take part in something new and unique.
“We launched the project in April, and the response was incredible. Since then, we've had around 400 students. Puppy Yoga has grown into a full company, not just a project. The experience has been amazing!” Dani says proudly.
During the sessions, a genuine bond forms between the students and the pets.
For many students, it’s their first time practicing yoga—and the pets often win their hearts.
“The animals that participate in the classes are up for adoption, as we partner with NGOs that rescue and care for them. Since then, we’ve helped around 50 pets find new homes!”
In addition, participants in these unique classes benefit in two distinct ways. The first benefit comes at the time of registration.
Part of the registration fee goes toward rescuing and caring for animals. During class, the benefits continue—contributing to participants’ well-being and quality of life.
“Yoga offers a range of benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, along with the physical practice that provides exercise. Contact with animals has proven to be therapeutic, helping release hormones linked to happiness,” concluded the creator of Puppy Yoga.
