The dog days of summer were back in full force in Aurora Sunday, Oct. 3 as more than 100 canines gathered at Phillips Park for the annual Aurora Pooch Parade.
Mayor of Aurora, Richard Irvin was on hand to welcome the dogs and their owners to the popular annual event.
Last year’s winner, 3-year-old toy poodle Heidi, was the Grand Marshal and led the procession of more than 30 breeds of dogs of all ages, from 3 months old to 12 years old.
While they were there to have fun, the owners also competed for top prizes for Best Costume, Best Aurora Pride, Best Smile, and Most Energetic.
This year, the coveted Fan Favorite top prize went to Bandito, the 1-year-old Shih Tzu, donned in Cubs gear with his owners Selene and Oscar. Bandito will serve as Grand Marshal of next year’s Aurora Pooch Parade.
— City government of Aurora, Illinois