Une boa lâchée à Colegiales: la campagne publicitaire d'un promeneur de chiens qui a mis en veilleuse un quartier entier

A campaign promoting dog walking services sparked widespread alarm in Buenos Aires' Colegiales neighborhood after a fake message about a loose boa circulated among residents. The incident began with flyers distributed in the area warning of a large snake named "Piti," which had reportedly escaped from a local home. The alert quickly spread through social media groups, prompting concern among neighbors who feared for their safety. The story took an unexpected turn when it was revealed that the message was part of a promotional strategy by a local dog walker aiming to attract customers. The flyer, which urged residents to stay indoors while the walker cared for their pets, was widely shared and re-shared before its true purpose became clear. This led to confusion and anxiety, particularly among pet owners who were genuinely worried about the presence of a dangerous animal in their vicinity. Matias Carpinetto, the dog walker behind the campaign, found his efforts remarkably successful. Many residents, especially those with pets, expressed genuine fear upon hearing about the supposed boa. Marta Laborda, a long-time resident of the neighborhood, described her distress at the thought of someone keeping such a creature as a pet and having it escape. She noted how the situation generated a sense of unease, even among those who did not own animals. In contrast, some residents remained unaware of the campaign's intent. At a nearby market, an employee expressed surprise upon learning about the alleged boa. He stated he had not received the message and found it hard to believe that such an animal could exist in the area. Similar sentiments were echoed by others who continued their daily routines without apparent concern. Colegiales, known for its residential character, provides a setting where such rumors can gain traction. The neighborhood features low-rise buildings, apartments with long corridors, lush gardens, open garages, and ongoing construction projects. These elements contribute to an environment where the idea of a hidden serpent might seem plausible, adding to the credibility of the initial warning. The campaign capitalized on existing concerns by referencing earlier notices about "Piti," a boa believed to have escaped from a private residence. According to these earlier reports, Piti was a docile animal accustomed to human interaction. This context made the new flyer more believable, allowing the campaign to reach a broader audience effectively. The boa in question, scientifically known as Boa constrictor occidentalis, is native to the dry Chaco region of Argentina. It does not possess venom and captures prey using constriction. In the wild, it feeds on small mammals, birds, and other reptiles. Female specimens can grow over four meters in length, making them potentially formidable creatures. As the truth about the campaign emerged, many residents expressed mixed feelings. Some appreciated the creativity used to promote a service, while others criticized the unnecessary panic caused. The incident highlights the power of misinformation in digital spaces and underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it widely.