Hamsters in Hats and Pugs in Capes: 25th Annual Pet Parade

— by Cara Russell —

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Proud dogs wore skirts, and introverted goats blushed under their bonnets at the 25th Annual Pet Parade fundraiser for the nonprofit Kaleidoscope. Animals and their owners marched through the streets of Eastsound on Saturday, May 23rd, at 11 a.m. Many had been waiting since 10 a.m., in a long snaking line that ran down School Rd, from the elementary to nearly the high school.

Children’s House Mayoral Candidates kicked off their campaign, and were out greeting their constituents; shaking paws, wings, and what have you. Spectator dogs on the sidelines grinned as their pretty pals passed by. And after the march through the streets the procession found comfort in the grass at the Village Green to wait for the trophy and ribbons awards ceremony. Master of ceremonies Didier Gincig made many attempts to interview the winners, but it turns out that ponies don’t seem to have too much to say when they’re on the spot.

Everyone who entered received either a ribbon or trophy, while others just walked their pets just for the fun of it. All registered participants were photographed by PAWKI’s, and received a goodie bag. Joey from Rockin Dogz Pet Grooming offered a pet grooming raffle, and donated all the proceeds raised that day to Kaleidoscope. A few dogs in the parade sported a new do by Joey. Rockin Dogz Grooming can be found on Facebook or call 376-1468.

This year’s categories include:

• Islanders Bank: An Island Original
• Island Hardware & Supply: Star of the Show
• Orcas Excavators & Island Excavating: Largest Pet
• Four Winds Westward Ho: Best Camper
• San Juan Builders Assoc.: Best Built Pet
• Dr. Brenda Ivans DDS: Best Smile
• Orcas Issues: Most Intelligent
• Ray’s Pharmacy: Best Costume
• VanderYacht Propane: Owner-Pet Look Alike
• Orcas Online: Fastest Pet on the Net
• Orcas Family Health Center David Shinstrom & Staff: Healthiest Pet
• Orcas Island Family Medicine Orcas Island Physical Therapy: Most Talented
• Terra Firma NW: Judges Choice
• Island Market: Best Fed Pet
• Orcas Veterinary Service: Best Behaved
• Dr. Steven Bailey DDS: Best Breath
• Realtors of Windermere: Friendliest Pet
• Kaleidoscope Staff & Board: Most Colorful
• Kiwanis Club of Orcas Island: Best Group
• Odd Fellows: Oddest Pet

Twenty island businesses supported the event and categories this year. Dr. Jill Bates judged the contestants, The Lower Tavern provided food for the concession stand, and Madi Jane West and friends gave a musical performance after the awards ceremony.

The money raised at this event goes to the Kaleidascope, which serves many Orcas Island children, ranging in age from infants to 12 year-olds. For more information or to donate to the nonprofit visit their web site, or call 376-2482.