Nestle Purina's annual Beggin' Pet Parade brings together bacon, Mardi Gras

Nestle Purina PetCare's 21^st annual Beggin' Pet Parade saw thousands of costumed pets and their owners gathered in the streets of St. Louis to celebrate Beggin', bacon and Mardi Gras. Grand Marshal Andy Cohen and band Barenaked Ladies were also at the event, which included a parade, a free concert, a costume contest and other family-friendly activities.

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A $10 required registration fee for each pet participating in the parade benefited the Open Door Animal Sanctuary, a nonprofit animal rescue and adoption organization in the St. Louis area, and the Parade raised more than $17,000 for the organization. Registered pooches received a free Beggin' Party Bag filled with Mardi Gras beads, Beggin' brand dog treats and a certificate of participation.
"This year's Beggin' Pet Parade was the best yet with the help of Andy Cohen, Barenaked Ladies and the thousands of parade-goers," said Greg Stinson, Beggin' assistant brand manager. "We love seeing the unique costumes, celebrating the spirit of Mardi Gras and creating memorable moments with pets and their owners. We're already looking forward to next year!"