For the first time ever, hot dogs will walk the catwalk at the Pets for Parachute fashion show

It was a day of fun straight out of Zoolander, but there was more canine glitter than blue steel for the first fashion show hosted by pet company Parachutes at Pixel Park.

A local charity dedicated to keeping low-income Calgarians with pets before they enter the shelter system attracted 20 dogs, two cats and more than 200 people to the charity and fun event.

“We are very excited to be here at Pixel Park for the first time Paws and Parkas fashion show. It's a great way to get out into the community and celebrate dogs,” said Lauren Fettig, head of communications and fundraising for Parachute Pets.

“Registration was free today and we saw some amazing outfits. We've also brought in You Thrifty Pet Shop for all your shopping needs.”

This thrift store pet store offered great savings on pet parachutes for visitors looking to pick up a few pet-related items while attending the fashion show.

“We had about 10 categories today: best dressed, we had our You Wear category, we had winter wear, and we also had swimsuit, formal wear and best DIY costume,” Fettig said.

“Prom suits were a big hit, and all the bow ties and tuxedos came out. And the two cats we had today were amazing. We couldn't say no to the animals that descend from these cats.

Nico Sprenger and his dog Ann took home the top prize in the formal wear category for their chic duo combination of French-inspired blue and then red berets, blue and leopard print jackets with Coach dog collars.

Sprenger said she wanted to be part of the event because Parachutes for Pets does good work for Calgarians.

“Pet Parachutes are programs that really mean a lot and help people stay with their animals, especially with the cost of living, how hard it is to rent and everything,” she said.

“They do a great job. I really love them.”

Working to keep low-income Calgarians with pets

Fettig said the organization works to break down those barriers for low-income Calgarians in general.

“Our goal is to keep people with pets and remove some of those barriers if you're in financial need through our pet food bank, we help with veterinary care and spaying and lots of educational programs. ,” he said.

The event was the latest in a series of community events at Pixel Park aimed at improving the lives of Calgarians.

Emma Stevens, director of communications and external affairs for the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation, said working with organizations like Parachutes for Pets is a key way to build community involvement in a cultural and entertainment district.

“Pixel Park's goal is to activate the cultural and entertainment district with programming and accommodation initiatives,” he said.

“Today we had over 200 people and their dogs enjoy this wonderful day and support an important local cause that builds an animal-friendly and inclusive community. That's why we're so excited to be able to organize events like this with our partners that bring a boost to the community and give back to the community.”

She said that with the success of the first Paws and Parkas event, CMLC is looking to partner with Parachutes for Pets for another pet fashion show.

“We look forward to working with pet parachutes in the future. This is our first season at Pixel Park, so we really understand what works well. I think what brings people out and we want to learn from all these events that we've had this season and see how we can build on them and do them again in the future,” Stevens said.

For more information about Parachutes for Pets, visit www.parachutesforpets.com.