ST. LOUIS (KMOX) – For the first time in the 26-year history of the annual Purina Pet Parade, a four-legged marshal will be leading the pack along the parade route through the streets of Soulard. Barclay, the future assistance dog being raised by the St. Louis Blues hockey club, will be joined by KMOV anchor Emily Pritchard and 101 ESPN Radio host and former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Brad Thompson as grand marshals of the parade taking place Sunday, Feb. 24.
“As an assistance dog in training, Barclay showcases the unique bond between pets and people, so he’s a perfect fit to be our first-ever four-legged grand marshal,” said Daniel Koehler, Senior Community Affairs Specialist at Purina. “Emily and Brad are passionate pet owners who support all things St. Louis; we know they’re going to bring new levels of excitement to the event.”
A post shared by Barclay (@stlbluespup) on Dec 13, 2018 at 11:20am PST
A post shared by Barclay (@stlbluespup) on Jan 30, 2019 at 10:54am PST
Pet owners and their costumed pets can march in the parade for a donation of $10 per pet, with all proceeds will benefitting Open Door Animal Sanctuary. Registration is now open at www.PurinaPetParade.com and will be available onsite the morning of the parade beginning at 10 a.m. at 12th Street and Allen Avenue.
The parade steps off at 1 p.m. at 12th Street and Russell Boulevard and proceeds throughout the streets of Soulard, ultimately ending at Soulard Market Park. There is no charge to attend the parade as a spectator.
As in previous years, the annual Pardi Paws pet photo costume contest will take place online in conjunction with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. The contest is open to pets who attend the event in Soulard and those who choose to stay home and party in the living room. Participants can submit photo entries in advance and consumers can vote for their favorite costumes during the week following the parade at www.stltoday.com/contests.
Following the parade, the popular Weiner Dog Derby will take place in Soulard Market Park. Registration is available the day of the event, but in order to save time, participants are encouraged to register online in advance to hit the ground running on race day.
“The parade takes place in our hometown, and it’s become a St. Louis Mardi Gras tradition the whole family can enjoy,” said Koehler. “It’s the perfect embodiment of what we believe at Purina, as well as our commitment to the pets and people of St. Louis.”
2019 marks the first time the Purina brand will be the title sponsor the parade. Previous parades were sponsored by the Purina Beggin’ Strips brand.