The club’s starting eleven walked out accompanied by the animals as part of a joint initiative to raise awareness of responsible adoption and animal welfare. Elche said the action was organised because the dogs “too deserve a family, a home, and lots of love.”
Video released by the club showed players in white kits carrying or walking the dogs across the pitch at the Estadio Martínez Valero under bright afternoon sun, with stands filling behind them. The gesture formed part of the pre-match routine for the fixture.
Elche, who have used the platform of home matches for community campaigns this season, described the appearance as a way to highlight the work of the local shelter and encourage fans to consider adoption. The players completed the walk-out before taking their places for the league fixture. The initiative drew immediate attention on the club’s social channels.