On Sunday, February 16, beautiful puppies and their humans gathered for the Bark in the Park event, kicking off the weekend festivities ahead of the 26th Annual Krewe of Mutts Parade. This celebration not only brought joy to dog lovers but also served as a fundraiser with a vital cause – promoting spaying and neutering for animals in need.

CAAWS Krewe of Mutts Parade is their largest annual fundraiser, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to their spay and neuter programs, helping reduce the overpopulation of animals in our community.

Hosted by the Capital Area Animal Welfare Society (CAAWS), the event featured a variety of activities, including local vendors, Baton Rouge Police Department K-9 demonstration, and a dog costume contest that had everyone barking with excitement. A fun highlight this year was the Game of Thrones-themed costume contest, showcasing both creative pet outfits and the spirited participants.

For many, the event is also a chance to promote pet adoption. Cameron Russell and Kensley Dawson expressed their excitement for the cause, sharing that they’re eager to see more people adopt pets.

“We’re trying to get them to adopt one for us,” Cameron Russel and Kensley Dawson said.

The celebration also wouldn’t have been possible without sponsors, Raising Cane’s, who has supported the event for an impressive 17 years.

Libby Haydel, the Vice President of CAAWS, emphasized the importance of the event, noting that the Krewe of Mutts Parade is key to supporting their spay and neuter programs, which make a lasting difference in the lives of many animals.

The event wrapped up with an After Pawty featuring a live band, where attendees danced, celebrated, and reflected on the important cause they had gathered for — all in the name of giving our furry friends a better future.