Dallas’ annual Pooch Parade brings out bravest dogs in the whole wide world

by Teresa Gubbins

Cool weather knocked down attendance, but not spirit.

DALLAS — Cool weather may have scared off some of the crowd for the 22nd annual Easter in the Park/Pooch Parade in Lee Park on Sunday afternoon, but that in no way detracted from the fabulousness of the dogs, in their sunglasses, hats, T-shirts, and bows. Who's a good boy?

The event, which benefits the Turtle Creek Association, with proceeds used for beautification projects in the neighborhood, drew an estimated 2,500 people, said spokeswoman Becky Mayad.

"That's down from our usual attendance of about 10,000," she said. "Obviously, the weather was a factor. The fact that the Symphony performance, originally scheduled to take place outdoors, had to move to the Meyerson had an effect. But that decision was dictated solely by the instruments. It's not safe for the musicians to play when it's under 65 degrees. But we felt like we had a good turnout. It ended up being a pretty day."

The number of contestants was down by about half, from the usual 150 to 75. The upside for those who attended: Finding a parking space, usually a big hassle, was a breeze.

Here are the first place winners:

• Best Small Dog: Peanut, tucked away in a baby stroller, so adorable!
• Best Large Dog: Bella, resplendent in flowers. "It looks like she rolled around the Arboretum," said one wag.
• Best Owner Lookalike: "the witch and Dorothy" -- the dog was Dorothy, with little brown curls, a blue pinafore, ruby slippers, and a miniature picnic basket
• Best Dressed: "Pancho" -- big owner with Mexican ensemble and maracas, dog with miniature sombrero.

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