Wauconda celebrates pets with 'Back to Drool' parade

After children went back to school in Wauconda on Aug. 12, it was time for pets to put on their best back-to-school outfits and walk in the fifth annual "Back to Drool" Pet Parade in downtown Wauconda Thursday.

The furry event, sponsored by Bark 'N' Town, Wauconda Animal Hospital and the Wauconda Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomed pet owners to bring their dogs, cats and other unusual animals to strut their stuff during the Wauconda Farmers' Market.

"We invited people to come out and bring their pets and dress them up in school spirit," said chamber of commerce board member Brian Linning, the master of ceremonies for the show.

"It's a great kind of themed event. We try to get the whole community involved and rallied around creating fanciful costumes,"

As it turned out, seven dogs and one bearded dragon battled for the honor of winning "Best Teachers Pet" and "School Spirit" contests.

A crowd of dogs and people gathered to watch as the contestants and their owners walked across the stage before voting for the winners.