Rio’s ‘Blocao’ invites pets to take part in Carnival festivities

World Today

Carnival has kicked off in Rio de Janeiro. This year, revelers will be able to enjoy roughly 450 street-party parades. One of them, however, stands out for its popularity with true “party animals.” CCTV America’s Lucrecia Franco reported the story from Rio de Janeiro. 

Tails wagging, dogs of all breeds were having their share of Carnival fun in Rio de Janeiro. They even have their own band.

This is the annual Blocao, a play on the words in Portuguese for street party “bloco” and “cao” dog. It’s a friendly pet parade that has been held in the city for the last 12 years.

“Dogs want to be with you, come rain or shine, all the time, whether you are sick or happy, dogs are on your side so they enjoy, just look at their tails,” Marco Antonio Toto, a Blocao organizer said.

The red carpet contest is one of the highlights of the party, with pet owners proudly showing off their best friends with the most original and funny outfits.

One participating pet was Luiza , a five year old Maltese who paraded dressed up as a nurse.

Luiza’s owner says she is like a child to her, showing a passion for animals all the revelers here seem to share.

“Luiza loves it, she is very sociable , a party animal,” pet owner Laura Revoredo said.

All the excitement might be explained by the fact that Brazil has the world’s biggest pet dog population after the United States, with more than 30 million.