Parade gives dogs their day

Photo: BEN WATSON

LOVE THAT DOG: Robyn Fond and her miniature poodle Lani.

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Pooches get their time to shine when Devonport holds its dog parade.

Prizes will be awarded to the best dressed, dog who looks the most like their owner, the most clever, Devonport’s doggy idol and Devonport’s next canine supermodel.

The April 4 event is organised by Robyn Fond, an American who has been in New Zealand for 20 years.

She got the idea from an Easter parade in Long Beach, California, where all the dogs were dressed up – some in army uniforms complete with boots and backpacks, some as Playboy bunnies and others as chickens.

Ms Fond decided she wanted to run a similar thing here, with costumes optional.

As well as a day to celebrate love of dogs, it is a fundraiser for the SPCA. Ms Fond has the backing of the Devonport Community Board and the North Shore City Council.

She is expecting that 300 to 400 people and their dogs will take part.

The day will include a flygility display where dogs fetch a ball shot from a flyball machine.

Mark Vette will introduce some celebrity dogs and there will be owners who dance with their trained dogs.

The Devonport Dog Parade takes place at Windsor Reserve on April 4 from 11am to 3pm. A gold coin donation to the SPCA would be appreciated.

For information call Robyn Fond on 445-6736 or community coordinator Maire Vieth on 445-9533.

- © Fairfax NZ News