Cologne – September 11, 2026 -- Rescue dogs got a shot at new homes at a Bark Date event held on September 6 at Beethovenpark in Cologne, where TV presenter Laura Wontorra and dog expert Jochen Bendel helped connect shelter animals with potential adopters.
Bark Date lets people meet rescue dogs on neutral ground instead of in a shelter
The initiative brings together dogs from animal welfare groups and prospective adopters on dog-friendly meadows rather than in traditional shelter settings, allowing animals to show their personality in a relaxed environment before any adoption decision is made.
Around 350 animal welfare associations and more than 1,000 active foster homes now work with Bark Date. Since the initiative launched, over 4,000 dogs have been presented and more than 1,000 have been successfully placed in new homes.
Wontorra's own rescue dog Milo drives her support for the campaign
Wontorra, a brand ambassador for pet food maker Purina, adopted her dog Milo from a shelter and has partnered with Purina to promote responsible pet adoption. She described feeling a rush of emotion watching first encounters between dogs and potential owners at the event, noting that a single glance or a cautious wag of the tail can signal a match.
Bendel worked the Cologne event as an on-site 'match maker' for visitors
Wearing a branded "Match Maker" shirt, dog trainer and TV host Jochen Bendel offered visitors tips based on his experience working with dogs, helping them assess compatibility with the animals on site. He argued that the best human-dog relationships form through direct encounters rather than through a photo posted online.
Purina backs shelters across Germany and Europe with donations and events
The pet food company has supported responsible pet adoption for years, working with partner organizations to fund awareness campaigns, events and food donations for shelters and animal welfare groups throughout Germany and Europe. Through its partnership with Bark Date, Purina aims to draw more attention to animals in need and encourage more people to consider adoption.