Press Release
From:         Knowlton SDC
Release Date: Week of April 15, 2002

  Victoria Day is Going to the Dogs — Again!

Preparations are underway for Knowlton’s second annual Victoria Day Dog Pageant. This popular event — a fundraiser for the Montérégie SPCA and the Frontier Animal Society — is just one of many fun-filled activities scheduled for the upcoming Victorian Days in Knowlton Festival, to be held over the May long weekend.

Last year’s inaugural pageant featured 14 dogs owned by Knowlton merchants, while more than a dozen other dog owners spontaneously joined in the festivities. “Because of this enthusiasm, we are inviting everyone to register their dogs in an ‘Open Invitational’ category this year,” explains Victorian Days organizer Jean McLeod, co-owner of the three England Hill boutiques in Knowlton. “In keeping with the heritage theme, we encourage everyone to dress in Victorian costume, even if just a boater or flowery hat.”

The public is invited to vote for the “Best In Store” dog using ballots at participating Knowlton stores and at Pur Animal in West Brome. Dogs registered in the “Open Invitational” will join the “In Store” dogs in a parade to Coldbrook Park, where they will play games, and win doggie prizes and treats for different feats.

Dog owners who would like their pooches to join in the fun should register in advance. The fee is $3. Registration forms are available at participating merchants (look for the Dog Pageant poster in the window).

Votes for “Best In Store” dogs cost $0.50 a piece. “We’re raising money for a good cause!,” says Jean McLeod, “so we encourage everyone to vote early and vote often!” Last year, the Dog Pageant raised $1,100 for the SPCA and Frontier Animal Society and hopes to do even better this year.

The Dog Pageant is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Monday, May 20 (or, in case of rain, the following Sunday, May 27.)