06/12/2022
"WWWWWWOOOOOOOWWWWW!!! What a great day! Boy, did we luck out with beautiful weather and the community showing up with their four-legged friends!
We had such great entertainment, including K9 Kevin with the Newton and Cambridge Police, Karen O'Reilly, our own Animal Control Officer with the Weston Police, followed by some fantastic contests, a meet and greet with Instagram influencers & , and finishing with a parade for all pups around the Weston Town Green led by Patty McNeil with The Village Bank. Congratulations to all of the winners!
We had terrific exhibitors showcasing their products and services, which all need a special mention: Fred Levy Art Photography, Smokie's Cuts, Weston Emergency Services Core, DotWatch Fence, Knawty Treats, ADA Vet Wayland, Pet Wants, Thunder's Wonders, Joy Viola's Book Signing, and Camp Unleashed.
Our silent auction attracted a lot of attention; many dog treats–and some premium items–were generously donated to help our charity causes: Joy Viola organized.
Rob Mosher did an outstanding job taking charge of our food and beverage station along with the help of our newest Rotarian, James Brasco.
Jan Luchetti, Brenda DeVito, and Edwin Gaw deserve a shout-out for creating a seamless and welcoming check-in process.
Nods to John Marchiony, co-founder of the Pooch Parade concept back in 2015, and Wing-Dog to the Chair for his support and volunteer corralling: he was there with us in spirit.
Many thanks to our sponsors, starting with BIG DOG sponsor The Dog Retreat & Spa, SLED DOG sponsor Weston Veterinary Clinic, and PUPPY DOG sponsors Write Coach and Dr. Dental.
And finally, a special thank you to everyone who volunteered and gave their time and energy; their help created the magic!
Alex Faigel
Alyson Muzila
Betsy Freedman Doherty
Brenda DeVito
Catherine Bassick
Denise Brown
Denise Mosher
Edwin Gaw
Elizabeth Messina
Ellie Katz
Ellie Marshall
Emily Dias
Father Tom
James Brasco
Jan Luchetti
John Marchiony (Wing-Dog)
Joy Viola
Marilyn Hirsch
Mark Messina
Marla Luzzi
Mike Cave
Owen Gold
Patty McNeil
Paul Lualdi
Richard (Ricky) Stearns
Richard DeVito
Rob Mosher
Robert Blackburn
Sam Muzila
Susan Howards
Susan Wagner
Tim DeVito
Tom Miller
Tricia Liu
Vera Dias
Overall, I'd say that we achieved what we'd set out to do: bringing together the surrounding communities while raising awareness and funds for Operation Delta Dog, Buddy Dog Humane Society, and Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue. So now we can rest, relax, and enjoy the rest of the weekend."
- Janika LeMaitre, Chair, Pooch Parade & Festival
P.S. You'll see some attendees who enjoyed a great time meeting other doggies in the photos, including Pumpkin, Elvis, and Leia.
