BarraShopping has been pet-friendly since October 2018 and now brings another new feature: a dog park – an area entirely devoted to pet leisure, located outside, next to Entrance E. To facilitate the flow of people, the area was designed with an independent entrance and exit from the mall and has wheelchair access.
The inauguration took place on November 9 and had as special guest the animal trainer and TV host Alexandre Rossi, known as “Dr. Pet”. A specialist in animal behavior, he was a consultant on the development of the park. Currently, Alexandre is a special guest on the “É de Casa” program, broadcast by Rede Globo, and is the host of “Missão Pet”, on the National Geographic subscription channel.
The opening was packed with reggae sound, which, according to research * from the University of Glasgow and the Scottish animal protection organization, causes the stress level of the animals to decrease. Light rock is the other rhythm that reassures pets.
For the animal trainer’s fans, the mall offered a special afternoon schedule. From 3 pm to 3:30 pm, Alexandre spoke to the public and explained everything about the BarraShopping ParCão, as well as answering questions and giving tips on animal behavior in parks and open environments. Rossi then spent time with a limited number of fans for a photo shoot with Estopinha, his pet dog and digital influencer, who already has over 627,000 Instagram followers. From 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm, one of the trainers of the Cão Cidadão company offered some training tips to the public. From 5 pm to 5:30 pm, he spoke with interested parties individually.
The Park
The space covers an area of 450 m² with the entire space covered by standard wood porcelain and a specific synthetic grass for pets. The venue is open for animals to play freely, and a circuit with mini-tunnels, ramps and other amusements to encourage animal fitness. It also has a Dog Bar equipped with a filtered water fountain, which is in front of the amusements and remains illuminated at all times. With the thought to the safety of puppies, there is a special place reserved just for them to have fun.
The park is fully adapted to the needs and comfort of pets, with several watering bowls, wooden benches, sprinklers to cool the environment and flower beds scattered throughout the perimeter. To preserve and maintain the hygiene of the site, there are several recyclable and organic collection bins, as well as bag pullers. The park was also equipped for the owners', with wi-fi, security cameras, lighted benches with cell phone chargers and an armchair, especially for pet selfies.
The park will take only those animals accompanied by their owners. In addition, the space follows the rules of the mall, so breeds such as Pitbull, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, American Stafforshire Terrier and variations of them must use the guide collar, muzzle and choker collar. On the mall's premises, except guide dogs pets are not allowed in the food court.
The Città Vet veterinary clinic was also present at the event, distributing giveaways, product sweepstakes and professional photos of the owner and his pet.
Service:
Location: Av. Of the Americas, 4666 - Barra da Tijuca - Entrance E
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 10pm; Sundays and holidays: 1pm to 9pm
Entry free of charge
* Research Source: https://www.bbc.com/portuguese/geral-38726961
