On Jan. 15, 2017, hundreds gathered on and around Third Street South for the 8th annual Pets on Third, benefiting the City of Naples Dog Park. Pets on Third is a celebration of all things pet-related, a pet festival with the highly popular Pet Parade, and dozens of vendors representing the best of Naples’ pet services, veterinarians, groomers, trainers, shops, rescues and more. This year’s parade was “A Night at the Oscars: Pets Walk the Red Carpet as Hollywood Stars,” with award categories including Best Action Hero, Best Romantic Lead, Best Sexy Starlet, Best Animated Character, Best Leading Lady, Best Villain, Best Ensemble Cast, and Judge’s Choice.
Pets from weeks of age on through senior status, from the smallest to the largest, dressed as Superman, Charlie Chaplin, Sophia Loren, Yul Brynner from “The King and I,” and many more graced Third Street. In addition to the many wonderful dogs of all shapes and sizes, there was an adorable miniature horse, a pig, a cat, and parrots joining in the fun. The parade was expertly judged by Mayor Bill Barnett, Allison Pezzuti of The Scout Guide, and Kristin Pratt from Pratt’s Shoes, with Bob Harden, host of the Bob Harden Radio Show, providing his excellent emcee services.
The City of Naples Dog Park, which opened in 2011 at 99 Riverside Circle, is a 1.35-acre recreational area, featuring dog-friendly landscaping and mulch as well as shaded areas, water fountains and other amenities, where larger dogs have the run of 1 full acre and smaller dogs enjoy .35 acres of space. Dogs must be registered to enjoy the Dog Park but registration is free and the form can be easily accessed through the City website. Pets on Third provides much-needed annual financial support for the Dog Park for maintenance and upkeep to ensure this much-used resource continues to thrive free-of-charge for residents.
