For the first time since the pandemic began, pets parade through Soulard for Mardi Gras.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — On Sunday, thousands of pets marched through Soulard's streets for the neighborhood's annual Purina Pet Parade in honor of Mardi Gras.

The celebration is one of many scheduled during the season.

Since the outbreak, this weekend was the first opportunity for individuals to enjoy the occasion in person.

There were big dogs, tiny dogs, a variety of breeds, and their owners present.

Amy Schuler has been attending the event with her golden retriever for the past five years.

Mason has three legs, says the narrator. Due to the fact that he was born without one of his front legs, he uses an ability cart to get around. Schuler explained, We usually say he has three legs and two wings.

I saw a boa constrictor, says the narrator. OK, I'm thinking. I thought I had the strangest animal on my hands. A snake, I believe, is much stranger. Glenda Drier, who was standing next to her goat, stated, At least she has four legs and can appear like a dog.

She's a therapy goat, says the narrator. Over the years, she's gone to a number of nursing homes and schools, Drier remarked.

People congregated near the Tito's tent after the parade for the much-anticipated Weiner Dog Derby.

Since 2020, when COVID-19 shut down most of St. Louis, Mardi Gras has been canceled.

It was good to be back celebrating and bringing in cash for the community, according to local officials.

This is vital for the viability of our pubs and restaurants here in Soulard, said Alderman Jack Coatar of St. Louis' 7th Ward. "The funding and revenues go to some fantastic animal shelters to care for these puppies who have yet to find homes.We're just ecstatic to be out.