However, Vedika Pinto’s relationship with her dog Benji does not only involve that of a movie star and her pet. It also serves as a reminder of the positive influence that dogs can have on our lives. On the occasion of International Dog Day, Pinto shared about the impact Benji had on her attitude towards pets and family.
Benji entered the life of Pinto in 2022, just one week before the release of her first movie, Operation Romeo. She was stressed out about the release of the movie and convinced her mother to get a dog to relieve herself of this tension. The funny thing is that Pinto’s mother has always been “strictly anti-dogs.”
But everything was different once Benji entered the house. Now, Pinto reveals that her mother is his greatest fan.
Benji is now a valuable part of the Pinto family. He even has a favorite eatery in BKC, Mumbai, where he can sit at the dinner table and feast on puppy cuisine.
According to Pinto, Benji has made her realize that having a pet dog is much more than playtime.
For Pinto, Benji remains “the greatest gift” she has ever received.
Possibly, the greatest impact of Benji is an emotional one. Pinto mentions how, after long days on set, she usually goes home with thousands of ideas swirling around in her head, and Benji helps her to relax and appreciate the present moment.
In addition, his humorous nature entertains his family. He likes to take their shoes and run away with Pinto’s scrunchies when he wants to grab everyone’s attention.
Staying with Benji has also helped Pinto understand the challenges that dogs face in Mumbai. She mentions how few places there are to walk dogs and stresses that people need to have empathy for the animals that live on the streets.
Her point is clear: taking care of dogs does not just mean keeping them in the house. It means creating an empathic world for them too.
Pinto, however, adds another suggestion that people should refrain from getting a dog without understanding the responsibilities attached to it. In her view, the only individuals who are ready to dedicate the time to their dog should consider keeping one.
On World Dog Day, the story of Benji sends out a very crucial message, which is that dogs need love, patience, dedication, and compassion every day.
References Link: https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/international-dog-day-vedika-pinto-we-need-compassion-for-street-dogs-101787663947335.html