It should be a doggone good time.

Dogs will compete for the titles of Miss Prissy Pup and Mr. Manly Mutt during the Fourth Annual Pooch Parade that coincides with the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce’s Mayfest celebration on Saturday, May 4.

Those interested in entering their furry, four-legged friends into the competition can fill out an entry form at the chamber office, or come by the event the day of. There is a $10 entry fee and the parade will start at 9:15 a.m., said Sheryl Vickery, executive director of the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce. All dogs must have proof of current rabies vaccinations before entering.

This year’s sponsors for the show include: Atmore Animal Hospital, Lee Veterinary Clinic and K-9 Kleaners.

There will also be an award given to the best-dressed pooch in the group, which Vickery said can be a competitive category.

“You have your Alabama and Auburn,” she said. “You’ll have some in dresses. They’re dressed to the nines with fingernail polish and bows.
“One year we had a dog in a bikini and sunglasses,” she added.

Vickery said the judges will take into account a dog’s cuteness, friendliness and overall personality. She said tail wagging was very important.

In addition, donations can be made to the Atmore/PCI Animal Shelter while at the event, Vickery said. Dogs from the shelter will even be competing.

“This chamber is very supportive of the animal shelter,” she said. “It’s so important to support the shelter. Those people do a wonderful job and we need to support them.”