Ace India shuttler Ashwini Ponnappa has teamed up with PETA India for a brand-new ad campaign that shows her relaxing with rescued dog ‘Shifu’ next to her racket with the caption reading, “Love All. Adopt a Dog or Cat From an Animal Shelter!”

Just before heading to the ongoing Commonwealth Games at Glasgow, Ashwini took time out of her busy schedule to team up with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India for this brand-new ad that encourages her fans to open up their homes to a homeless cat or dog.

“Stray dogs don’t have anywhere to go, and they’re chased a lot by people. They’re beaten up. They also get run over by cars,” she says.

“Instead of buying a dog, please go and adopt stray dogs and cats who need a home. And it will help them out and help you out, because you will have a companion at home.”

The ad was shot by ace photographer Sam Mohan, while Ashwini’s hair and make-up was done by Ralph Daniels.

“Pedigree” cats and dogs, who have been bred for certain exaggerated physical traits such as squashed-in noses and long ears, are more susceptible to developing medical problems, including cancer, kidney disease, joint ailments, hip dysplasia, heart defects, epilepsy and eye and ear infections.

Ponnappa won the gold medal in women’s doubles in the 2010 Commonwealth Games. She also won the bronze medal in the women’s doubles competition in the 2011 BWF World Championships.

source: http://www.business-standard.com / Business Standard / Home> PTI Stories> National> News / Press Trust of India / Mumbai – July 27th, 2014