GEORGE TOWN: Pets are often barred from public places and events, so when an open-air bazaar was held for people to bring their pets, it became a joy for them to walk, shop and let their furry companions socialise.

The four-day Popipop Market at Maritime Automall in Karpal Singh Drive turned the waterfront strip into a lively pet haven.

“I usually take my dogs out once a week, but there aren’t many places we can go to,” said Issac Lim, 28, who brought his two mongrels, Max and Jack.

“Here, they could walk freely in the crowd, and people were comfortable around them. It feels good to see so many other pet lovers too. Events like this help us bond, and strangers even came up to say hi to the dogs.”

While Issac came as a visitor, clothing vendor Michelle Si, 30, was grateful she didn’t have to leave her Bichon-Pomeranian mix, Hamisu, at home.

“She’s like my child. I bring her to my shop daily, and we’re hardly apart.

“Some bazaars don’t allow pets, so I have to find someone to look after her. This bazaar lets me run my stall and still have her with me,” she said.

Scaly experience: Lee (left) and Xuan Rou petting a bearded dragon at the Popipop Market.

Si was joined by her friend, Ooi Eufey, 25, who brought along her two energetic Chihuahuas, Fubao and Nina.

The bazaar was organised with support from Stark Tower, a nearby project that aims to promote pet-friendly living.

Sales project director Ronaldo Lim said it was part of a push to foster broader inclusivity.

“Pets in public spaces can be a touchy subject. But more people are adopting animals and sho­wing civic awareness.

“We believe coexisting with pets is not just possible – it’s becoming normal. This is about building understanding between pet owners and the wider community,” he said.

Local pet care brand founder Gary Chin, who took part in the bazaar, said pets today are treated like family and their health matters more to people these days.

“We’re here to help owners understand the importance of good food and care,” he said.

Chin organised a round of musical chairs for dogs and their humans — a crowd favourite that drew cheers and laughter.

The event also welcomed exotic animals, giving visitors a chance to meet creatures like a bearded dragon and a milk snake up close.

College student Lee Wan Ning, 21, was among those who stepped forward.

“People are scared of exotic animals, but they’re really gentle and even adorable,” she said.

“It’s not every day you get to touch something like that. I’m glad I attended the bazaar.”

Lee was accompanied by her friend Chin Xuan Rou, also 21, who agreed that seeing exotic pets was a rare experience.