Bride wanted for Amban: Two-year-old Kerala Beagle’s unusual marriage ad gets responses

KANNUR: Amban is two years old, stands 20 centimetres tall and is currently looking for a bride. The Beagle from Kannur has even got a matrimonial-style advertisement to help with the search. In the poster, Amban appears in a black shirt, tongue out and floppy ears hanging down, seemingly waiting for the right match. But despite the playful presentation, Amban’s owner says the proposal is quite serious.

Abhilash, a resident of Thalap in Kannur, posted the advertisement on Roms N Raks, a web page for pet owners featuring information about pets from across Kerala. The unusual proposal has already drawn responses from several people offering potential matches for Amban.

According to Abhilash, this is not simply a joke. Amban lives inside the house and is treated as a member of the family. The aim, he says, is to understand the dog’s physical needs and find him a suitable breeding partner.

There is also a customary exchange involved when dogs are paired for breeding. The owner of the female dog may pay a fee to the owner of the male dog, or the arrangement may involve giving one of the puppies to the male dog’s owner.

And if Amban does find his bride, there could be a wedding celebration too. Abhilash says he has plans for a wedding card, a new outfit, a photo shoot and even a dog wedding.

An engineering graduate, Abhilash lives with his wife, Sona.

New pet culture

Dogs are no longer seen merely as guards at home. For many families, they have become beloved members of the household, with increasing importance being given to their physical and mental well-being.

Finding a suitable breeding partner is also part of a growing pet culture in which the needs of animals are being taken more seriously.

Amban at a Glance

Breed: Beagle (UK)

Colour: Tricolour

Health: Healthy

Vaccinations: Completed