As everyone already knows, I LOVE doggie parades…as well as dogs!!! I am very happy to report that our Santa’s Doggie Parade on December 11 was a big success! We were very lucky to have four terrific judges who enjoyed the puppies on parade and the little tricks some displayed to the applause of the crowd. Once again, Petco Arroyo Grande donated delicious doggie treat bags for each entrant, and any that remained after the parade were donated to our local shelters. Local resident Karen Blue continued to support our doggie parades with another beautiful raffle basket that was won by Sharie Rouse. 

Our judges this year were ABCA Board President Robin Weed-Brown, ABCA Board Vice President Raul Cavazos, San Luis Obispo County District 3 Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg, and Grover Beach Mayor Jeff Lee. They said that it was difficult to select the winners, but here they are:

  • Best Costume: David Bernhardt with Cosette
  • Best Dog/Owner Look-Alike: Isabella Quintanar with Snoopy
  • Best Holiday Look: Troy and Vicki Johnson with Abby and Annie
  • Funniest Costume: Maria Soles with Dora
  • Best in Show: Diane Read with Tux

This year’s volunteers consisted of Cal Poly students Anna Haller and Georgia Luehrs for registration, Avila Beach Post Master Cindy Baker-Kobliska, who is our official dog wrangler each year, Lori O’Connor and Marina Searcy, who took pictures, Adam Montiel from “Up and Adam in the Morning” who loaned us his great speaker system, and especially Santa Bill Price. 

For those of you who were not able to come to our Santa’s Doggie Parade, I am including with my column lots of fun pictures so that you won’t miss the good times. 

Hopefully, you will be able to join us for our next parade on the 4th of July. Happy Holidays to all…and stay well and dry!