Mark Tucker
Izzy, dressed by Paige Baldree, sports a cowgirl outfit during tonight's Doggie Parade on Trade. Izzy won for the "Funniest" costume.
Mark Tucker
Crackerjack and Abby were the buzz of the town in their bumblebee outfits earning them honorable mention accolades.
Mark Tucker
Koda, a Doberman, was allowed space to strutt his stuff along Trade Street. Matt Snyder, Koda's owner, owns All About K9 Training.
Mark Tucker
Dogs invited their owners to accompany them along the parade route on Trade Street. Jessica Monroe, founder of Saved by the Heart, leads the Puppy Parade.
“We thought it would be a fun thing to do, something people could get out and do with their dogs,” said Jessica Monroe, one of the event organizers, and founder of Saved by the Heart, a dog rescue organization and educational program.
Many business owners had water bowls and treats out for the dogs to enjoy. Tables were set up in front of Acme General Store to promote local pet businesses and organizations, including Modern Pet Portraits, WoodRUFF Pet Resort & Spa, and Saved by the Heart.
After the parade, pet owners gathered with their costumed dogs for a Doggie Dress-Up Contest. The dogs were arrayed in a variety of fun outfits. Judges awarded prizes – gift bags filled with toys and treats – to two winners. Best Dressed went to Debra Grace’s Nemo the Hula Girl, and Funniest Costume went to Paige Baldree’s Izzy the Cowgirl. Twin Bumblebees, Crackerjack and Abby, won Honorable Mention.
“It was fun,” said Debra Grace, owner of Nemo, who attended with her son, Austin, and daughter, Lizzy. “Austin and Lizzy were the ones who came up with the idea and made the costume.”
After the event, people stayed under the awning of Acme General Store to chat, snap photos, and let their dogs visit with one another.
