The festivities for 215 years of Paraguay's independence gained a special touch on Thursday afternoon with the 'Jagua Patriota' dog parade in downtown Asuncion. More than 50 dogs, dressed in the colors of the flag or costumed as national heroes, paraded before hundreds of spectators in front of the National Pantheon of Heroes.
The event, now in its 10th consecutive year — including during the covid-19 pandemic, when it was held virtually — is organized by Rosi Rivaroila, CEO of PulgApp, a tool that promotes activities for responsible pet ownership. "This event shows that national holidays can be celebrated with pets, who are an additional member of families," Rivaroila said.
Four categories awarded the participants. Toy poodle Catalina, one of the few to parade without a leash and promptly obeying her owner's commands, won as the most skillful pet. Joaquim, an adult mixed-breed dog with a cleft lip, placed first in the costume category. Loira, an overweight Labrador whose costume barely fit, won the 'yuky' (friendly in Guarani) dog award. Bartolito and Chichita, both Shih Tzus, were awarded in the best team category.
The parade also served as a platform to denounce animal abuse. "There is a lot of animal abuse, they beat them, they kill them," said Alejandro Kulman, a member of an animal rescue organization in Luque. Kulman recalled that Paraguay has a law for animal protection and welfare, which considers animals "sentient beings" and obliges the state to guarantee dignified treatment, with penalties of 2 to 6 years in prison for offenders.