Colombians and their Dogs
Colombians and their Dogs
Dogwalker in Poblado, Medellin
Colombians seem to have a closer relationship with dogs than in most of the countries I have visited. They are the most pampered pets I’ve ever encountered. Man’s best friend takes an extraordinary role, being tolerated in more public spaces than I’ve ever seen. The various pedigree creatures are luxury accessories to the owners. They are allowed everywhere. The shopping malls cater to them by putting out bowls of water and providing little plastic bags for the occasional accident. They all seemed to be quite well-behaved. I did not come across any evidence of problems. But then Colombian shopping malls are extremely clean anyway. There’s always somebody sweeping up behind people. It also appears that Colombians are respectful of public places and do not litter the way I’ve seen it in other countries. Most public malls have spaces for children to play. But in Manizales, I also saw an area for dogs with a fake green lawn and a parkour of obstacles for dogs to crawl under or jump over.
The stores that cater to pet owners are remarkable. They range from basic supply stores of imported expensive pet food brands to the ultimate in boutique luxury. Dog costumes for all occasions, little coats, designer leashes in all colors, and any accessories one can dream up.
Dogs are even allowed in church, after all, they are God's creatures as well. At the Medellin market, I saw a sad section that was filled with cages of puppy mill dogs. But at least there was a notice painted on the wall to be mindful that these are living beings.
Personally, I am a cat lover. Cats are around in Colombia, but there are fewer. Maybe they are kept in the houses. But given the selection of items in pet stores, they play a lesser role.
Gato del Rio in Cali by Heranando Tejada
That is until I came to Cali where cats are celebrated in sculptures lining the river’s embankment. The first one was Hernando Tejada’s Gato del Rio in 1996, and since then it has been joined by a few dozen other cat friends painted by prominent Colombian artists.
