Over the weekend, dog lovers in Cairo gathered at The Dog Cafe for a winter bazaar dedicated to pampering their furry friends and shopping for pet essentials. Founded in 2022 by Ola Lofty and Hossam Hassan, The Dog Cafe offers a unique, pet-friendly space in a city where such establishments are rare. The couple’s goal was to create a space where both people and their dogs could enjoy a social atmosphere, providing a much-needed haven for dog owners in Cairo.
“We’ve designed the cafe with non-porous floors to prevent the spread of disease and bad odours,” Lofty explained. “Additionally, there are areas where customers can safely tie their dogs while they relax or shop.”
Business owner Iman Fathallah, who joined the community of dog lovers at the cafe, emphasized the importance of a social environment for pets. “A dog is not just an animal you feed and water. Here, we’ve created a space where dogs can socialize and alleviate separation anxiety,” she shared.
The winter bazaar held at the cafe featured an array of products focused on pet health, giving dog owners the chance to treat their companions to high-quality products while browsing for new items. For many in Cairo, The Dog Cafe represents a long-awaited solution to the challenge of finding places that welcome dogs.
Adham Hisham, a regular at The Dog Cafe, shared his excitement about finally having a place where he can enjoy outings with his dog, Bimbo. “I’ve often been told that dogs aren’t allowed inside other places,” he explained. “Now, I can bring Bimbo here to let him play and socialize with other dogs. It’s a great idea, and I hope it becomes more widespread.”
As pet ownership continues to rise in Cairo, dog owners are finding it easier to bond with their pets and meet like-minded individuals in a growing community that celebrates their love for dogs. The success of The Dog Cafe and its winter bazaar may pave the way for more pet-friendly spaces across the Egyptian capital.
