Benavente once again showed its support for its pets at the third annual charity pet show , an event that drew dozens of families and onlookers to the Plaza Mayor . The afternoon, characterized by a friendly atmosphere and enthusiastic participation, kicked off at 18:00 PM on Saturday, October 4th.
The event's purpose was purely charitable: the €5 registration fee per participant and any voluntary donations went to the local animal shelter , Procan . In addition to fun and good cheer, the event aimed to raise awareness about responsible pet adoption and care.
Where and how the day took place
The heart of the city, the Plaza Mayor , was the setting for a parade filled with affection and nods to pets, with the public watching the displays from the arcades. The organizers noted the warm reception of this year's event, which is already being seen as a fixture on the local calendar.
With a friendly and approachable tone, the afternoon combined entertainment and awareness: there was space for coordinated costumes between owners and animals, as well as tests that rewarded friendliness and skill.
Categories and open participation
The three-category format was maintained : “Charm and Charm,” “Skill and Obedience,” and “Best Pet and Owner Costume.” Participation wasn't limited to dogs; cats, rabbits, and other domestic animals also took part , adding variety and cuteness to the competition.
The councilor responsible, headed by councilor Sara Casquero , highlighted that the inclusive format allows more families to join and that the neighborhood's response has been growing edition after edition.
Solidarity registration and support for Procan
The registration fee (€5) went entirely to Procan to cover food , medication, and veterinary care costs. The organizers encouraged additional donations , and several foster animals participated in the parade to promote their adoption.
This social approach turned the contest into more than just a party: it was a call for shared responsibility and commitment to animal welfare in the city.
Awards and collaborating businesses
The winners in each category received a €100 voucher redeemable at local specialty businesses. Among the sponsors were Agropal , Alba Dog Grooming , and La Mota Veterinary Clinic , strengthening the ties between local businesses and the animal welfare community.
In addition to recognizing effort and creativity, the awards served as an incentive to continue caring for and educating pets with patience and affection.
Jury and atmosphere in the Plaza Mayor
The judging was carried out by a panel of volunteers from the animal shelter, with the support of some attendees, who scored the performances using whiteboards in a quick and transparent process. The audience, always respectful, accompanied each performance with applause and good humor .
Among the most celebrated scenes were the costumes shared by owners and pets , and a succession of numbers where the bond and obedience were rewarded over technical perfection.
List of winners of the third edition
After the performances, the awards were announced, clearly demonstrating the high level of this year's event, with families involved in every detail:
- Best Pet and Owner Costume
- 1.º Partners must Ana — Nougat
- 2.º Partners must Carmen — Eros and Caramel
- 3.º Partners must Lorena and Mari — Coco
- Sympathy and charm
- 1.º Partners must Daniel — Net
- 2.º Partners must Carmen — Sugus
- 3.º Partners must Incarnation — Nati
- Skill and obedience
- 1.º Partners must Jonathan — Dollyo
- 2.º Partners must Victor — Moro
- 3.º Partners must David — Pong
With the awards ceremony and the final group photos, the day ended with the feeling that the contest has strengthened its identity: fun and solidarity go hand in hand to support Procan and promote respect for all animals.
