Deck the Paws Parade Participants (Pet Entries)

Deck the Paws - Pet Parade kicks off the Winder Christmas Parade in Winder, Georgia. Described as the pre-game show to the main event, dogs (and their owners) are encouraged to dress for the season and strut their stuff down Broad!

Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance into the parade.  You will be notified by email if you have been approved, rejected, or waitlisted by Nov 3.   Guidelines, Rules and Regulations Pet Parade Rules and Waiver

• All pet owners and participants must follow all pet parade rules. Participation in the pet parade represents understanding of the rules. All participants must attend the mandatory pre-parade virtual meeting. Date and time will be provided after applications have closed.
• Pet walkers are encouraged to register online. You will receive a registration confirmation via email within 5 business days. You must check-in at Winder Fire Department by 1:45am. The pet parade will begin at approximately 2pm.
• Children accompanying pet walkers must be strictly supervised. Children walking pets in the parade must be at least 16 years of age unless accompanied by an adult.
• Pets must have current vaccinations and be in good health. Current rabies tag must be worn on the pets collar or in owner's possession at all times. All pets must have a recent shot records and up to date vaccinations within one year prior to the event.
• All pets must remain on a leash or in a crate at all times, and owners must remain with their pet. You may pull your pet in a wagon or other prop, but your pet should still be restrained by a leash.
• Pets should be sociable with other animals, adults, children, and should not be aggressive about food, toys, or owner. Aggressive animals or animals in heat are not allowed. Owners must immediately remove any pet from the event at the first sign of aggressive behavior. City of Winder staff and volunteers have the right to ask owners and their pet(s) to leave if they begin to show signs of aggression or are disruptive to the festivities.
• Pets must be comfortable in a loud and festive environment. Please be aware of the stress level of your pet at all times.
• Owners must dispose of waste properly in the designated on-site receptacles.
• Owners are liable for any injury or damage caused by their pet and are fully responsible for their pets' actions.
• Please do not allow anyone outside of the barricades to feed or pet your pet.
• Pets and pet walkers are encouraged to dress in costume, but humans are not permitted to dress up as Santa.
• No large livestock allowed in the pet parade. If you have livestock you would like to enter, please register for the main Christmas parade following the pet parade.
• No awards will be given. This is simply an opportunity for pets and their owners to participate in a walking parade and show off their furry friends. If time and resources allow, the parade emcees may make remarks about your pet(s) for the parade video.