Mutt March 2013: Who Will Be Dunedin's Honorary Mayor?

Canines of all shapes, sizes and skills are running over to Dunedin's Highlander Park to cast their vote on Saturday, Feb. 16.

They'll be lining up to take part in Suncoast Animal League's seventh annual Mutt March for pet look-a-like, singing and dancing competitions, pet vendors, raffles, an art corner, food and and water stations (don't worry, there's a beer garden for people).

They'll be there to help their four-legged friends from more than 20 animal rescue groups get adopted to new families, as well as see who gets named the next Honorary Mayor of Dunedin, a fundraising campaign title that goes to the dog (or goose) with the most pledges.

(It's not too late, start your dog's campaign or cast your vote.)

The event is free to attend, but a $3 parking fee and beer money goes to Suncoast Animal League, a Palm Harbor-based no-kill rescue shelter. 

Schedule of Events: 

Pup Art Tent
(11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Your dog can paint his or her own picture using safe, non-toxic paints and whatever works for a "brush" — paws, tails and more. Volunteers will rinse your pup off afterward. Cost is $5. The Pup Art tent is to the right of the main stage.

CPR for Pets Demo
(11:15 a.m.) 

Learn how to help your dog in case of an emergency. This demonstration could save your pet's life.

Pet-Owners Look-a-Like Contest
(Noon) 

Just like the traditional costume contest, the idea is to dress up your pup, only this year, the idea is to look like twins. Extra points go to handmade costumes and creativity. Prizes are awarded to the top three look-a-likes. Entry fee is $7. Registration ends at 11:45 a.m.

Pledge Walk (Honorary Mayor of Dunedin Contest)
(1:30 p.m.) 

The dog with the most pledges will be declared Honorary Mayor of Dunedin. (You can enter your dog into the race now.) But all pledgers will get to do what dogs do best: take a celebratory strut around Highlander Park. Dog owners who raise $50 will receive a complimentary Mutt March T-shirt and doggie bandanna; owners raising $25 earn a doggie bandanna. The top three fundraisers earn other prizes. Registration is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Pledge Drive Awards Ceremony
(2:30 p.m.) 

The dog with the most votes ($1s) will be named the Honorary Mayor of Dunedin.

Fido Idol (Doggie Singing Contest) 
(3:30 p.m.)

Does your dog sing, howl or yelp on command? Here's your pup's chance to be a star. Prizes are awarded to the top three set of pipes. Entry fee is $7. Registration ends at 3:15 p.m.

Dancing with the Paws (Pet-Owner Dance Competition) 
(4:30 p.m.) 

Are you and your dog coordinated? Think you can dance? Prizes are awarded to the top three dancers. Entry fee is $7. Registration ends at 4:15 p.m.

Raffle Drawing. 
(4:55 p.m.)

Purchase raffle tickets throughout the day. Winners announced at the end.

Want to Go?

• When: Saturday, Feb. 16, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Where: Highlander Park
• Cost: $3 parking, otherwise free to attend; onsite ATMs available.
• What to Bring: Lawn chairs, blankets, sunscreen or hats, pets
• What to Leave at Home: Umbrellas, tents, canopies, food or drinks, coolers, glass containers, cigars.
• More Info: 727-786-1330 or info@suncoastanimalleague.org

Previous Coverage:

• Goose Enters Race For Honorary Mayor of Dunedin

Check the Dunedin Patch events calendar to see what else is going on. Don't see your event? Add it to the calendar!