Monaco’s Rokethon association combined haute couture with animal advocacy at their ‘Compagnons de coeur’ luncheon-conference on 26th June at Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo.
The fundraising event featured a cruelty-free fashion show by designer Olivia Deblieux – La Grand Marianne and Victoria Luxury Silk – Caftans, alongside a gastronomic luncheon orchestrated by two Michelin-starred Chef Christophe Cussac. The gathering drew attention to pressing issues facing abandoned animals in Monaco.
Sylvie Sermenghi, founder of the Rockethon association, highlighted a critical gap in Monaco’s animal care infrastructure. “We have no emergency veterinary services or animal hospitals in Monaco,” she revealed. She identified this as a key issue the association is working to address along side animal abandonment.
However, Sermenghi’s vision extends beyond emergency care. Speaking to Monaco Life, she said: “I want to buy land because I want a space where we can cure injured animals before we give them for adoption. Often, animals are traumatised physically or mentally, so adoption isn’t possible immediately. We must have them rehabilitated first.”
Balancing adoption with responsibility
The association is pursuing legislative changes, including the introduction of a “dog permit” system inspired by the Swiss model. “The dog permit would regulate human behaviour—the actions of pet owners—and help identify irresponsible guardians,” explained Sandrine Chiche and Jade Guillamo of Un Brin de Chance.
The group intends to engage with Monaco’s government in hopes of positioning the Principality as a leading example for other European nations. “We want Monaco to set the standard—an example that can ripple out to France and across Europe,” said Sandrine Chiche and Jade Guillamo.
During the event, participants also explored the idea of launching a national petition to bolster their cause, with several speakers underlining the urgent need for political action at the highest levels.
Monaco’s unique challenges
Sermenghi acknowledged the unique challenges posed by Monaco’s limited size. “Monaco is very small, and people are often forced to go outside the country to walk their animals,” she said, pointing to the lack of dedicated dog parks.
Still, she emphasised the Principality’s untapped potential: “We have wealth in Monaco. We have people with the financial means, so we should be able to offer something decent for animals.”
The association also looks after a wide range of abandoned animals beyond just dogs and cats, including rabbits, goats, and even horses. Sermenghi herself currently shelters thirteen animals, among them dogs, rabbits, cats, and goats.
Fashion meets compassion
The cruelty free fashion shows provided an elegant conclusion to the serious discussions, demonstrating how luxury and ethical principles are not incompatible.
Rokethon’s efforts have previously attracted high-profile support, with Princess Charlene participating in the organisation’s charity walk in October 2024.
The association continues to seek foster families and permanent homes for abandoned animals whilst working towards systemic changes in Monaco’s animal welfare infrastructure
Stay updated with Monaco Life: sign up for our free newsletter, catch our podcast on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.
Main photo by Monaco Life.
