Rescued dogs strutted in colourful outfits at Nairobi’s “Pawchella” dog show, raising funds for animal welfare and promoting pet adoption
NAIROBI: Nairobi’s annual dog show returned with colourful flair as rescued canines paraded in creative outfits at the “Pawchella”-themed event.
Organised by the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals, the Shaggy Dog Show featured dogs saved from abuse or life on the streets.
“We get 6,000 calls a year for immediate, urgent help,” said KSPCA chief Emma Ngugi, noting emergencies from car accidents, human cruelty or sickness.
Fashion ranged from Mexican sombreros to Maasai-inspired shukas, with many owners coordinating their outfits with their pets.
The “Adopt, don’t shop!” theme highlighted rehabilitated rescue dogs now thriving in permanent homes.
Ngugi acknowledged many animals at the centre remain in desperate condition despite the success stories.
The century-old NGO rescues dogs, cats, donkeys and horses while raising crucial funds through events like the dog show.
Every furry attendee required a vaccination certificate as KSPCA advocates for pet vaccination.
“Rabies remains a serious threat in Kenya,” Ngugi emphasised.
The organisation also champions neutering to address Kenya’s growing stray dog population.
Contestants included everything from a 45-kilogram cane corso to a tiny 1.8-kilogram chihuahua.
A three-year-old Caucasian shepherd won the “shaggiest” category with its impressive grey coat.
Ngugi described the event as “a chance to come together and celebrate” as dog lovers.
She noted Kenya’s evolving pet culture, with animals increasingly valued as companions rather than workers.
“The majority of people now adopting, especially dogs and cats, are young African Kenyan families,” Ngugi observed. – AFP
