Mystic Mutts revel in Mardi Gras fun

FAIRHOPE, Ala. (The Haven) - The 9th Annual Mystic Mutts of Revelry is history!

The weather was sunny, spirits were high, and hearts were warm as 200 dogs and over 500 humans took to the streets of Fairhope, in joy and exuberation.

Everyone gathered at Fairhoper’s Park where they registered, took lots of photos, met new friends and generally had a good time.

Grand Marshalls Cherish Lombard of Studio 10 and DJ Q-Tip of WABB introduced the Royal Mutts who strutted their stuff before the crowd.

Queen Helen, a noble golden retriever (owner Joan McKinney) and King Magoo, a Boston Terrier (owners Joni and Bill Euler) led the royal court, followed by Prince Henry', French Bulldog (owners Alexandra & Lisa Box ), Princess Piper, a Pug (owner Claire Curtis), Grand Duke Humphry Bogart “Bogey”, golden retriever (owner Mary Francis Hershiser), and Grand Duchess Lola, Westie (owners John & Julie Pate).

Previous Fairhope mayoral candidate, Willie Bean, paid a special visit from his new home in New Orleans to say “hello” to old friends.

Promptly at 2:30, the festivities began. As they walked through the streets of Fairhope, the revelers and their human companions showed off their costumes of feathers, beads, sequins, as well as masks. In line with the parade’s theme of “Wizard of Pawz”, many Oz characters could be seen, both human and canine.

The parade moved quickly through the streets of Fairhope and, with the arrival of two floats, the fun-filled parade was coming to an end. Majestic Mutts Float led the way followed by the Emblem Float holding all the high royals. Each float was pulled by a truck from one of the participating sponsors, Chris Myers.

Lead sponsors, Mary Ann’s Deli and McSharry’s Irish Pub provided an after-parade venue to celebrate. Other sponsors included Optera Creative, Windmill Market, Brenny’s Jewelry Co., Miller’s Grand Events, and KT Designs.

“The Mystic Mutts of Revelry parade 2012 was enjoyed by every breed large or small and by all people be they short or tall,” said Chairperson Aimee Egbert. “The Wizard of Pawz was a great success and the funds raised will go a long way in helping every Toto find their furever home! A huge thanks goes out to all of our mutts, walkers, volunteers, spectators and sponsors for their support of The Haven."