Elche will again host a provincial animal adoption fair on October 22 and 23, organized by volunteer groups Footprints Recorded and Footprints on the Mountain. The event tackles abandonment and animal abuse while inviting the community to consider adopting a pet as a meaningful alternative to purchases. It aims to connect future owners with adoptable animals and highlight the important work done by shelters and conservation associations.
The fair is presented as a chance to learn about responsible pet ownership and to support the commendable efforts of local associations committed to animal welfare. The organizers envision Elche becoming a lively meeting point where prospective families can meet animals needing homes and learn how to care for them long term.
Mayor of Animal Welfare, Mariola Galiana, introduced the seventh edition of the gathering, scheduled to take place at Hort de Baix municipal park, with the cooperation of the city council. The event will run over the October weekend and will feature workshops, talks, and demonstrations designed for families. From a young age, new generations are encouraged to understand what abandonment means and how care and commitment can make a real difference.
In addition to educational activities, a drawing contest for children aged four to twelve invites participation at the La Burrow booth inside the fair. Prizes total more than 200 euros. The program also includes crafts, raffles, games, and storytelling to instill a sense of responsibility toward pets from an early age.
One of the fair’s main attractions will be dog training demonstrations and beauty pageants. On both Saturday and Sunday, dogs will be showcased in shows conducted by K9 SportDogs in collaboration with the Elche Police Dog Unit and the Gadi group. The demonstrations will cover obedience, defense, scent detection, and search work. Pet owners can sign up their dogs at the La Burrow stand for the beauty contest running through Sunday.
Two animal parades are planned for Saturday and Sunday, designed to introduce pets to the public and encourage adoption. The schedule also features a magician’s performance, a batucada musical group, and a talk on dog training. Eric Diez will address common myths about pet care and adoption.
Alexandra Arribas, representing the Freed Footprints Association, expressed gratitude to the City Council and to the president for recognizing the importance of hosting this event. She emphasized that the fair helps make the work of animal welfare groups visible throughout the year and highlighted the department’s ongoing efforts to raise public awareness about animal abandonment.
Beyond adoptions, the event emphasizes responsible pet ownership and long-term welfare. It is an opportunity for the community to engage with shelter staff, volunteers, and veterinarians, learning practical steps to prevent future neglect and to support dogs and cats in need.
Guard’s Worker in Alicante Comments on Adoption Interest
Aitor Soler is noted as a participant who commented on the enthusiasm surrounding adoption while attending the fair. The event continues to promote adoption as a compassionate choice and provides resources for potential new families to make informed decisions about pet care and ownership.