The municipality of La Oliva will once again mark animal welfare and public awareness with the second edition of World Animal Day. The event, now firmly established on the island’s calendar, will take place at the Parque Canino (Dog Park) in Corralejo and promises an unforgettable experience for schools, families and animal lovers alike.
As the big new feature of this second edition, organisers have devised a format split over two distinct days. On the Friday, the event will be dedicated exclusively to school groups from Corralejo’s CEIP primary schools. Pupils will enjoy a unique morning designed to help them discover some of the wildlife found in Fuerteventura, learn first-hand about the work carried out at La Oliva’s municipal animal shelter, and receive key training on the rescue and care of pets. The Local Police will also join the students to showcase the impressive work carried out by their police dog units.
On Saturday 3 October, the event will then open its doors to the general public from 10.00am to 2.00pm, with activities for the whole family and their dogs to enjoy, including canine bonding workshops, dog yoga classes, personalised advice sessions, games, a pool area, talks on neighbourly coexistence, an adoption catwalk and numerous prize draws for all attendees.
The mayor of La Oliva, Isaí Blanco, said: “This event shows our municipality’s firm commitment to protecting and respecting animals. Opening our doors to schools on the first day is an investment in education and in the future, while Saturday gives us an unbeatable opportunity to come together as a community.”
Meanwhile, the Councillor for Public Health, Christian Rodríguez, highlighted: “We have put together a very comprehensive programme that combines awareness-raising, responsible pet ownership and community enjoyment. Having schools, security forces and animal shelters involved enriches this initiative, which grows stronger in La Oliva year after year,” he added, also thanking the Department of Citizen Participation for its collaboration.
The pet-friendly events organiser Salchiquedadas Canarias stressed the importance of joining forces: “We are proud to be part of this great event. Seeing the community come together to strengthen the bond with their pets and socialise with others is the greatest recognition of our work,” concluded Axel Sifontes.
Attendees are advised to arrive on time, as assisted activities will require prior registration, and to wear light clothing, comfortable footwear and sun protection. Anyone bringing animals along must ensure their dogs are properly identified and up to date with their vaccinations.
