Hundreds of people, some with cat masks and dog costumes, and many carrying or walking their pets, were on hand for the World Animal Day celebration in the Loggia, the space allocated for such events, in Iraklion.

The massive event, organized by the Cretan Animal Welfare Group (CAWG) of Malia, and supported by fourteen animal welfare groups, featured stalls selling anything from T shirts to pens to mugs to raise money to support all the stray and injured animals. Plus many school children had sent in drawings of animals which were all on display.

"I want to thank the Iraklion Demos for the generous use of the Loggia," said Kerenza Vlastou of CAWG, the principle organizer. "I am very pleased with the turnout and thank all the volunteers for all their help, not just for the day, but throughout the year."

Ms. Vlastou also expressed her appreciation for all the various sponsors and local business support which made the day a huge success.

"I sincerely hope this will become an annual event with many more attractions," she added.

Judging by the visitors' response, the event's most popular attraction was the face painting where various artists painted the faces of the many children in attendance.