From a teacup Yorkie to a bloodhound which tips the scales at 100 pounds-plus, canines of every size and shape were represented at this morning’s Benedum Festival Pet Parade at Bridgeport City Park. As owners and their dogs meandered into the park, they received a number and were registered for desired contests – which ranged from prettiest to noisiest to best kisser.

 

After an inspiring – but noisy - blessing of the pets by Barbara Grigg, the procession was off. The parade route followed the trail around City Park, with dogs stopping intermittently for hydration and other necessary stops.

 

At the conclusion of the parade, the judging started; the panel including WDTV’s Nate Smail and Benedum Festival longtime committee member and 2014 honoree, Eileen Frank. For each category, registered canines strutted their stuff, hoping to score big points. During the “most obedient” contest, dogs even showed off their coolest tricks.

 

As temperatures were climbing high early in the day, some pets and pet owners didn’t stay for the duration of activities, which also included an agility course, demonstrations and education by pet rescue organizations and other canine-friendly attractions.

 

Pet lovers attending today’s festivities included Mary Pierson and Evan Porter, who brought their black poodles Polo and Lil, both dressed to the hilt in Pittsburgh Steelers gear. In addition to cutest pet and owner-pet look-alike contest, young Porter said he entered his pooches in the “best licker” contest.

 

Sharon Ward and her daughters Gretchen Lantz and Madison Ward brought along their four maltese breeds.

 

“We’ve had Chanel for six years and Duval for five years and these are their boys Gunner and Bojangles,” Ward said.  

 

Although canines dominated the pet demographic present, it wasn’t just about the dogs. Bridgeport’s Casey Lewis and her three daughters proudly displayed their red-eared slider turtles Squirmy, Tuck and Shelly.

 

They typically reside in a 40-gallon tank, complete with rocks and sunroom. But for today’s occasion, they were showcased in a portable plastic aquarium.

 

The family was in hopes that they would walk away with the most unique pet award. 

 

Check back later for a list of winners in today's pet parade and related activities. 

 

Photos by Julie Perine and Brittany Perine

 

See WDTV's coverage of the pet parade HERE