This is how World Dog Day will be celebrated in Bogota

On Wednesday, July 22, Bogotá will host its annual World Dog Day celebration at the Castillo de las Artes located on Calle 23 No. 14 - 19. The event, titled Encuentro Barrial ‘Día de Perros’, aims to raise awareness among residents about responsible pet care and promote respectful coexistence with animals. Organized jointly by the District Institute of Arts (Idartes), the Gilberto Alzate Avendaño Foundation (Fuga), the District Institute for Protection and Animal Welfare (IDPYBA), and the Arca Luminosa Foundation, the day-long gathering invites community members to bring their pets and participate in educational and cultural activities. The program includes six main activities designed to engage both children and adults. One of the highlights is the reading session of the book Pis Pis Pis, which serves as a pedagogical and literary space aimed at fostering understanding of how children can live harmoniously with animals. Another key component is the workshop “Ponte en Sus Patas”, offering practical lessons on civic responsibilities, responsible pet ownership, and basic animal health care. A campaign to distribute reflective collars will target stray dogs and street recyclers, aiming to reduce road accidents and improve visibility during nighttime walks. An olla comunitaria (community soup kitchen) will provide a space for neighbors to share meals prepared according to balanced nutrition standards, reinforcing social bonds through food. A creative activity called taller de cianotipia will allow participants to explore traditional photographic techniques to document their relationships with their pets. An exhibition featuring rescued animals, organized in collaboration with the Los Mártires Shelter, will highlight adoption processes and the importance of giving these animals a second chance. In addition to the main event, Idartes has partnered with the Botanical Garden of Bogotá to offer another related initiative on Tuesday, July 28, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., also at the Castillo de las Artes. This environmental art encounter will feature cultural and playful activities intended to foster appreciation for nature, encourage sustainable practices, and build community ties based on mutual respect and active participation in local well-being. The organizers emphasize that the event seeks to educate the public on the ethical treatment of animals and the legal obligations associated with pet ownership. They hope to create a sense of shared responsibility and community engagement around animal welfare issues. The activities are open to all citizens and aim to make the experience accessible and inclusive, encouraging families and individuals to take part in promoting a more compassionate society toward animals. Participants can expect a mix of informative sessions, hands-on workshops, artistic expressions, and opportunities to connect with other pet owners and animal advocates. The event reflects broader efforts in Bogotá to integrate education, culture, and environmental consciousness into everyday life, using the occasion of World Dog Day to reinforce values such as empathy, responsibility, and care.