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Krewe of
Barkus is parade dogs can enjoy
February 1,
2007
As the city comes down from the high of a euphoric Saints season and
rolls into the Carnival season, the refrain, "Who let the dogs out?" is
not a cry we want to hear during a parade, unless it's the dog-only "pawty"
and parade called Barkus.
People parades of the normal Carnival variety, where large crowds, huge
floats and flying beads rule the day, can incite fear in canines and
discomfort among people fearful of dogs.
It's also illegal to bring a dog to a parade, unless it's a service or
police dog. Unless it's a parade where dogs are the main attraction,
they are not allowed within 200 yards of the parade route during the
parade and one hour before and after the parade.
But every dog has its day.
Designed specifically for the canine population, the
Mystic Krewe of Barkus
is ready to sniff the streets of the French Quarter for its 15th year on
Sunday, Feb. 11.
The parade will begin at Armstrong Park promptly at 2 p.m. and proceed
along its traditional 15-block route through the Vieux Carre, stopping
at the Reviewing Stand at Good Friends Bar at the corner of Dauphine and
St. Ann streets, where VIPs will toast the Royal Court.
Themed "A Street Dog Named Desire" the Barkus parade "pawty"
begins at 10:30 a.m. at Armstrong Park, the staging area for parade
participants.
Not all dogs enjoy wearing costumes or being a part of the larger scene.
In that case, you are welcome to check out the festivities on your own
and report back to your canine companion. There's no charge to hear the
music and see the sights. Edibles and potables will be available.
For those canines who do enjoy parading in this unique event, membership
in the krewe is open to all dogs, regardless of their heritage or breed.
Registration, which includes membership dues and a parade pass,
is $40 until Feb. 9. Registration on the day of the parade at Armstrong
Park is $50. Registration includes passes for one dog and one human
escort. Additional escort passes can be purchased for $8 online or the
day of the parade at the park.
Only dogs who are registered and have parade tags will be allowed to be
part of the parade. To register and learn more visit
www.barkus.org.
The Carnival season is definitely the time of year to let our hair down
and "laissez les bon temps rouler."
Keeping our pets safe during the festivities is worth its weight in
gold, and purple and green.
On a final note, when you're dressing your pooch, make sure your furred
friend's canine-fashionista outfit includes a current ID tag and collar.
- Laura Maloney
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