Aurora holds 2024 Pooch Parade; hands out awards

AURORA, Ill. — It was a beautiful day for the sixth annual Pooch Parade Sunday in Aurora.

Several dogs and their owners gathered at 11 a.m. at the Sunken Garden of Phillips Park for a chance to take home some awards.

More than 30 breeds were in attendance with large dogs over 100 lbs. to small ones fitting in the palm of their owners’ hands, according to the city.

The following dogs were award winners.

• Biggest dog award — Nandi, 5, an English Mastiff. Her daughter Olana, 3, and son Sampson, 2, were also in the competition

• Smallest dog award — Carmelita, 1, a Chihuahua who weight just four lbs.

• Best costume award — French Bulldog Quila, 2, and her sister Shitzu Molly, 2, who donned traditional Mexican outfits along with their owner, Nidia, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

• Twinsies Award —Six-month-old Toy Poodle, and his mom, Nina, who were dressed as Catwoman and a canine version of Batman.

• Most Energetic award — mixed breed Henry, 2, who made friends with every human and canine in the park within minutes of his arrival.

• The top prize, the Fan Favorite Award — Golden retriever mix, Yeli, who will be the Grand Marshal of next year’s parade.

The Aurora Pooch Parade is held on the first Sunday of October each year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.