If Dr. Doolittle could talk to the animals, he would hear them say, “Move to Lake Oswego!” It’s a pet-friendly town by any critter’s standards. In this small residential community of over 36,000 there are more than three doggie day cares including one that offers specific breed playgroups as well as a complimentary one at the Saturday Farmer’s Market, several pet sitting businesses (not to mention the neighbor’s kid who is looking to earn a few extra bucks this summer), pet supply stores, pet photographers and portrait artists, veterinarians, an Invisible Fence store and an off-leash dog park.

And since everyone loves a parade—even pets—on June 5, the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring Pets on Parade, a popular event returning to the summertime lineup of activities at Millennium Plaza Park beginning at 2pm (registration starts at 1pm).

While dogs and their masters are the most common entrants, last year featured a horse. Participants can compete in four categories:

• Dressed to Impress – everything from tutus and overalls have been featured on the animals as well as their masters
• Entertainers – these range from a dog who did a piggy back on his master’s back to the pet with a sudden case of stage fright that does nothing and still manages to entertain
• Me & My Shadow –owner and pet look alike contest
• It’s a Small World featuring small pets

Trophies are awarded for first and second place in each category by a panel of judges from the community which in the past has featured such local celebrities as the mayor and city councilors. Close to 25-30 entrants strut their pet’s stuff in each category, with an enthusiastic audience cheering them on.

All comers are welcome at Lake Oswego's Pets on Parade

Immanuel Kant once said, “We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.” I have a feeling I know what Kant would say about the heart of a city with doggie day care, pet sitters, a dog park and even a parade—it’s a doggone good place to be!