318 two-legged and 223 four-legged friends marched through Hamburg's Schanzenviertel for animal protection
The “Paw Parade” sent a strong signal for animal shelters in Hamburg. 318 people and 223 dogs took part in the silent demonstration through the Sternschanze to raise awareness for shelter dogs and promote adoptions. The dog group for a good cause was also supported by well-known faces such as St. Pauli football legend Holger Stanislawski and the influencers Louisa Masciullo and Chris Wascheck. Organizer Pedigree announced – in accordance with its announcement that it would donate 50 euros per participant – to round up the donation amount from 15,900 to 50,000 euros. The money goes to the German Animal Welfare Association as the umbrella organization of animal shelters. An extensive supporting program with information stands from Pedigree and the partners German Animal Welfare Association, AniCura and ZooRoyal provided valuable information in advance on topics such as adoption from animal shelters, dog health and nutrition.
Hamburg. On the approximately two kilometer long route through Hamburg's Sternschanze on Saturday, September 28th, from 3 p.m., there was an unusual, colorful scene: around 1,500 legs wound their way through the popular district – the furry friends on a leash, their animal parents with signs and Equipped with posters. The common goal: to draw attention to the many dogs in German animal shelters who are waiting for a new home. The first Paw Parade not only thrilled the participants themselves, but also attracted many curious looks along the route.
“It's great to see how many people are committed to this important issue and believe, just as we do, that every dog deserves a loving home. With today’s demo, we want to show Hamburg what kind of lovable dogs come from animal welfare and inspire dog lovers to adopt a furry friend from the animal shelter,” says Catarina Neumann, Director of Corporate Affairs at Mars Pet Nutrition.
Only every fifth dog in Germany comes from an animal shelter
It is estimated that around 80,000 dogs end up in German animal shelters every year. After a pet boom during the pandemic, this situation has become even worse. Many animal shelters are at the limit of their capacity. A survey by Mars Pet Nutrition among German dog owners shows that only one in five dogs comes from an animal shelter. Just 41 percent of Germans could imagine adopting a dog from an animal shelter if they were to buy a dog.
“Unfortunately, many people still have reservations when it comes to adopting animals from animal shelters. There are so many unique and wonderful dogs waiting in the facilities who more than deserve a second chance in a loving home. We are glad that the Paw Parade gave these animals an important platform today,” said Lea Schmitz, spokeswoman for the German Animal Welfare Association.
Colorful supporting program
Even before the demo, a jam-packed supporting program at Karo Beach offered a wealth of information on the adoption, health, nutrition and identification of dogs. ZooRoyal and REWE businessman Holger Stanislawski, a former professional football player and coach, signed and gave away around 200 pet balls on site. Many great products for two- and four-legged friends were won by the dog lovers in attendance on a wheel of fortune. Numerous dog owners took photos with their four-legged friends at a photo box to capture the moments they experienced together at the first Hamburg Paw Parade.