People, Pups Pack Park for Pooch Pageant

by Morri Mostow

 

Despite cold and threatening weather, hundreds of dog lovers, many accompanied by their pets, turned out for Knowlton’s 2nd Annual Dog Pageant on Victoria Day. Clarinettist Danny McAuley, in top hat and tails, paraded the dogs into Coldbrook Park to the tune of “How Much is That Doggie in the Window.” Dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes mingled, played games, won treats and ribbons — all with nary a bark or growl. The dogs were obedient and patient, until master of ceremonies Marc Belliveau, owner of Pur Animal in West Brome, uttered the fateful word “cookies.”  As if on cue, a dozen or so dogs strained at their leashes to stick their snouts in the biscuit basket.

For the second year in a row, Henry, from Paddie’s won the Blue Ribbon for “Best In Store Dog.” P.J and Sam from England Hill took second, and RoCoCo’s Jackson placed third. Public voting for  “Best In Store Dog” and registrations for the “Open Invitational” raised more than $1,400 for the Montérégie SPCA and Frontier Animal Society. Last year, the pooches’ fundraising efforts brought in $1,100. 

Organizers and merchants sported Victorian boaters, bonnets, knickerbockers, top hats and tails, kindly loaned by Knowlton Players. Congratulations to the Pageant committee, judges, helpers, and the Knowlton SDC for a hugely entertaining and successful event.