On Sunday 19th, the Mijas Grand Park became the setting for a day where animal welfare and solidarity walked hand in hand. Under the motto of a conscious walk, numerous local residents gathered to take part in a training session that included self-control exercises, scent games and practical guidelines for owners. The initiative, born out of the commitment of a local resident, had the primary objective of raising funds for the Cudeca Foundation, a leading entity in palliative care.

This Sunday event marked the end of a cycle of three sessions designed to improve the socialisation of dogs in public spaces. As explained by the organiser, dog trainer and therapist Karen Valdivieso, the programme was adapted to the needs of each animal: Friday was reserved for fearful dogs, Saturday for reactive ones and Sunday for balanced dogs.

Life-saving interventions

Valdivieso, who combines her private training business with therapies at Cudeca, highlighted the importance of this work. “I decided to carry out this activity not only to raise funds for Cudeca, so they can continue helping people, but also to encourage people to come to a different activity with their dog”, the expert stated. 

 

This resident elaborated on how animals become a fundamental support for palliative care patients both at home and at the Benalmádena hospice. “We work with physiotherapists and psychologists, setting short-, medium- and long-term goals to seek improvements in the physical and mental state of the patient and their family”, she explained.

María José García, a participating resident, attended with her two dogs and recounted that her husband “passed away from cancer four months ago aged 55, and Cudeca has been a great support, not only medically but, above all, psychologically”. María José continues to receive assistance from the entity and, for her, taking part in these events is a way of thanking those she calls “angels”.

 

Municipal commitment

The Town Hall backed the activity, highlighting citizen involvement in social causes. The councillor for Animal Welfare, Marco Cortés (PP), accompanied the participants and emphasised the importance of of canine education for civic coexistence. “Animals must be educated so that they coexist well with people; they are already a fundamental part of our families”, noted the councillor.

 

The day concluded with a group photo of the attendees, consolidating the success of an initiative where every step taken served to strengthen Cudeca’s care network.

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