During the carnival season, parliamentary animal‑welfare commissioner Silvia Breher (CDU) urged revelers to keep their pets out of festive parades and celebrations. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” on Monday, she warned that “animals have no place at carnival parades and carnivalesque events”.
Breher’s remarks were followed by the parliamentary state secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, who added that while carnival brings joy and good humour to people, it often translates into stress or even fear for animals. With their highly sensitive senses, large crowds and loud music are simply too much for them. “If you want to celebrate exuberantly, you’re welcome to enjoy yourself-but please do so without pets” she said.
The Animal Protection Association also called on pet owners to exercise restraint. Pets should not be dressed up or treated as an “accessory” and unconventional clothing such as costumes can be perceived as threatening and uncomfortable by many animals.