This Article is From Feb 12, 2016

80s-Inspired Fashion Show Draws Four-Legged Models

80s-Inspired Fashion Show Draws Four-Legged Models

A cat presents an outfit during the Pet Fashion Show in New York on February 11, 2016. (AFP Photo)

New York, United States: Donning frocks and fabrics of all colors, dogs, cats, chickens and even a lizard strutted to 80s music at a US charity event on Thursday.

With hits blaring in the background, the peculiar scene unfolded at the New York Pet Fashion Show -- a fundraiser for animal rescue groups.

A dog walks on the ramp to present an outfit during the Pet Fashion Show in New York on February 11, 2016. (AFP Photo)

The event, in its twelfth year, falls during New York Fashion Week and just before the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

"Unofficially, we kick off Westminster weekend," said Gregg Oehler, the event's emcee, who wore a white suit and shades inspired by the iconic 80s television series, "Miami Vice."

A chulala is carried on the ramp to present an outfit during the Pet Fashion Show in New York on February 11, 2016. (AFP Photo)

Proceeds from the event go to the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals, a nonprofit umbrella organization of 150 shelters throughout the New York area.

Among this year's models was Asiago, a 10-year-old Yorkshire Terrier who was given up by his owner to a no-kill shelter that is part of the Alliance.

A man carries his dogs on the ramp to present outfits during the Pet Fashion Show in New York on February 11, 2016. (AFP Photo)

Asiago was presented in an elaborate hand-built carriage and shown by Stephanie Mattera, a spokeswoman for the alliance.

Like other models, he is looking for his "forever home," as organizers put it.

Asiago was poised throughout his cruise on the catwalk and waited patiently as Mattera spoke with a reporter.

"These events really give these animals a spotlight so they can get the homes they deserve," Mattera said.
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