Pooch Parade Brings Out Fiesta’s Top Dogs

Photos by B Kay Richter - Contributing Photographer- SA Sentinel.

April 29, 2019 - Alamo Heights

Article By: Jonathan Guajardo - Editor, SA Sentinel

While many of San Antonio’s human population strolled through NIOSA at La Villita or sat atop bleachers watching colorful floats fill the city streets, the canine companions of the Alamo City rested at their homes, anxiously preparing for Saturday’s pup-centric Fiesta event: The Fiesta Pooch Parade, organized by Therapy Animals of San Antonio. Wagging tails and wet noses greeted the canine-loving crowds that had gathered to witness a Fiesta parade unlike any other.

Beginning at the Alamo Heights Swimming Pool, dogs promenaded throughout the streets, barking their approval as they went by. Many pooches wore hats, capes, and Fiesta-themed outfits while their owners also took the liberty of dressing the part as well. With one dog chosen as King Anbarkio (a play on Fiesta’s King Antonio tradition) each year, the event tries to mimic the pageantry displayed for other Fiesta festivities around town.

This year’s Pooch Parade, however, was marred by tragedy. King Anbarkio XII, a therapy dog named Shanti, lost her owner, Norma Brooks, a few days before the parade. Monday night Brooks was in a car accident by Jourdanton and died later on from her injuries in San Antonio. The event, although remaining festive, had many in attendance sharing their condolences with each other and reminiscing on a friend who would have loved to have been with her beloved companion at Saturday morning’s parade.