When Dogs Try to Break the World Record

On Sunday, Feb. 12, thousands of well-dressed dogs and their owners expressed their Love for the Smell of Bacon, this year’s theme, while marching through the streets of Soulard during the 19th annual Beggin’ Pet Parade.

The parade represents the spirit of celebration through pets’ memorable, fun-loving personalities and elaborate attention-getting costumes, so it was only natural to attempt a Guinness World Record.

During the parade, participating pets and owners were counted in an attempt to break the world record for “Most Dogs in Costumed Attire.” Official results are pending, but data recorded to be submitted to the Guinness World Record organization shows more than 1,300 costumed dogs were counted, which would break the record of 603 dogs set in Japan during 2011.

The Beggin’ Pet Parade is one of the largest pet parades in the country; it attracts more than 8,000 dogs and more than 80,000 people. Both four- and two-legged friends expressed their Love for the Smell of Bacon in a variety of ways.

From bacon-themed games, photo booths and Beggin’ sampling activities for dogs and bacon sampling activities for people by Grillmasters, to the famous coronation ceremony costume contest and Guinness World Record attempt, there was something for everyone…and every dog.

The 19th annual Beggin’ Pet Parade raised funds for Open Door Animal Sanctuary, an animal rescue and adoption organization in St. Louis funded entirely from donations. The required registration fee of $10 per pet directly benefits Open Door Animal Sanctuary.