There were some four-footed pooches masquerading as Pilgrims around Greenport recently, as over 20 canines donned costumes for the first ever Thanksgiving Pet Parade last weekend.
More than 25 dogs and 40 “humans” participated; the event was a benefit for the North Fork Animal Welfare League – raising over $300 for the non-for-profit animal rescue.
“I wanted to do something different, and there are so many pet events in October, but everyone seems to skip over November and Thanksgiving,” said Habor Pet owner, Kim Loper. “It was a great day and everyone had a lot of fun – and we were again able to raise money for NFWAL, and bring the pet community together for a festive event. I can’t wait to do it again next year.”
Next up, she said, Harbor Pet will be hosting Long Island’s first Ugly Christmas Sweater Party for dogs on December 13.
Local business owners Rena Wilhem of the White Weathered Barn, Scott Raulsome of Burton’s Books and Linda Kessler of Kessie in Greenport were the official judges; prizes were awarded for Most Creative Thanksgiving Costume, Most Turkeylike, Best Couple, Best Pilgrim, Best Indian, Best Side Dish and Best Dessert
Kimberly Mockler of Huntington, New York , who traveled with her dog Dakota — who is deaf, blind and used doggie wheels to navigate the parade— to attend the event, dressed her dog as a Thanksgiving table. “I love these pet events and now I have a great costume for next year’s Halloween and Thanksgiving pet parades,” she said; Dakota’s costume won in the “most creative” category.
