Carmel Poodle Parade, 10/1/11
Poodle Parade, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Participants await their turn to march
Something else to add to why Northern California is one of the greatest places in the world: Poodle Day at Carmel-by-the-Sea, recognized as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. As long-time poodle owners and lovers of everything doggie, my wife Sonia and I were excited to find out about this annual event.
Our two mini poodles, CB (Cuddle Boy), 14 and a half, and Queenie, almost 15, looked at us quizzically as we all woke up early for the almost two-hour drive down to Carmel and the 8 AM check-in. We quickly got our registration stickers and spent hours before, during and after the parade taking photos of the seemingly unending number of gorgeous, sweet, loveable and often funny poodles of all sizes and shapes. Many of the people who were brought by their dogs had colorful, matching outfits.
The parade drew 360 official entrants (poodles and poodle-mixes), from Sacramento to British Columbia, plus many others who came to watch. Registration fees go to the NorCal Poodle Rescue, adding to the joy and positive vibe of the affair.
After the parade, we had a wonderful lunch at Jack London’s Grill & Taproom, one of the many restaurants in this beautiful city that welcomes dogs. We already have next year’s parade date, September 29th, circled on our calendars.
Check out all our photos at photobucket.com/poodleparade2011