Downtown Tampa is set to be overtaken by canine cuteness this Sunday as the Pirate Pup Parade & Costume Contest returns, featuring local shelter dogs looking for forever homes. According to the Hillsborough County's Pet Resource Center, the shelter's dogs will be front and center in the parade, which kicks off at noon on Water Street, followed by the costume contest at 2 p.m. at Sparkman Wharf.
The day's events, organized by Water Street Tampa, will span from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes more than just a parade. Those attending can expect face painting, pet caricatures, and music performances. Also, there will be treats, gear, and goodies for the dogs up for grabs, along with on-site pet adoptions.
Hillsborough County's Pet Resource Center is currently housing more than 200 dogs, putting the facility well over its capacity. In hopes to alleviate some of this strain, all dogs participating in Sunday’s event are available for adoption. As the county’s only open-admission shelter, this means that they welcome dogs and cats without discriminating against breed, size, or age.
For those who might be interested in adopting but are unable to attend, information about the animals available can be found on the Pet Resource Center's website. Each dog from the shelter is microchipped, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered prior to adoption.
For more details about the event and the adoption process, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Pet Resource Center's website or stop by the facility located at 440 N. Falkenburg Rd., Tampa, FL 33619.
