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Dogs,
parades don't mix; keep pets safe
January 17, 2008
I'm one of those transplanted New Orleanians who can't quite keep up
with what designates the start of Mardi Gras. I'm a Louisiana native, so
I know it has something to do with the "sixth day" or the "twelfth
night," or something along those lines. Like most of my four-legged
friends, I become anxious in big crowds. Put me in the middle of a
Carnival parade and I start to hyperventilate. Before you can say,
"Throw me something mister," I'm sitting on the curb trying to catch my
breath, surrounded by a sea of legs.
For our canine companions, their view of the Carnival season is likely
the same: a sea of legs, sounds and crazy activity that can be downright
frightening. Their senses are so much more heightened than ours that
Mardi Gras activities can leave them feeling overwhelmed and overly
stimulated by large crowds and a party atmosphere, not to mention flying
parade throws.
It's only natural that many of us would like to include our pets in all
family activities, but dogs and Mardi Gras celebrations designed for
humans simply aren't a good fit. Pets can be injured by throws, people
or vehicles, and they can also become so startled that they risk getting
away from their humans and being lost.
For their protection and the protection of crowds, it's against the law
in New Orleans to bring a dog to a parade. They're not allowed within
200 yards of a parade route while the parade rolls and for one hour
before or after. Exceptions are service or police dogs and those who are
the main attraction.
There is a parade and Carnival celebration designed just for dogs that's
fun, safe and a treat for dog lovers. Barkus, which debuted in the
streets of the French Quarter 14 years ago, will delight us again this
year on Jan. 27, rolling at 2 p.m. from Armstrong Park.
Barkus also continues the tradition of a catchy theme with this year's
"Indiana Bones and the Raiders of the Lost Bark." The free Pawty
(before, during & after the parade) at Armstrong Park offers music and a
chance to see the sights! Edibles and potables also will be available.
Armstrong Park opens at 10:30 a.m. and is the staging area for the
parade participants.
There's a registration form and a membership/parade fee for those who
want to take part in the parade. For information, visit www.barkus.org.
Dog parades have become quite the thing. The Northshore's Mystic Krewe
of Mardi Paws parade is set for Feb. 10 on the Mandeville Lakefront.
Like Barkus, money collected as fees goes toward animal welfare causes.
For information on the Northshore event, visit www.mardipaws.com.
Carnival is indeed a fun time, and keeping it safe for our pets during
all the celebratory events is worth all the throws in the world.
- Gloria
Dauphin
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