Dachshund pageant sets Krakow yapping

Winning dog Borys: photo - PAP/Jacek Bednarczyk

This year's theme was “Dachshund Traveller”, and it was a four-legged fellow named Borys who ultimately won the hearts of the jury.

Borys, a native of Nowy Targ in southern Poland, conquered Krakow with his dashing Mexican outfit, complete with poncho, sombrero and guitar.

He saw off competition from Riki, a dachshund bearing a map and backpack, Lady, who sported a Hawaiian costume, and Una and Zaratustra, a pair of pooches dressed as astronauts.

Dachshunds have been the most popular breed of dog in Krakow for many years, virtually becoming a symbol of the city.

photo - PAP/Jacek Bednarczyk

The parade, which begins by the medieval city gates, sees the dogs march down the so-called “Royal Way” to the Market Square.

Such has been the success of the event, which is organised by Radio Krakow, that it now draws dogs and their owners from as far afield as Japan, Australia and South Africa.

This year, the organisers endeavoured to draw attention to problems such as the abandonment of and violence against dogs, with special tents erected on the square where members of the public could discuss the matter with both experts in animal welfare and police. (nh)