Sept. 28, 2012 - The City of Savannah's Department of Cultural Affairs and TailsSpin Pet Supply Store are joining forces to host PAWrade at Picnic in the Park at Forsyth Park on Sunday, Oct. 7 from 2-4 p.m. in conjunction with the city's Picnic in the Park event.

Picnic in the Park is one of Savannah's largest and most adored events. In 2011, approximately 23,000 people attended Picnic in the Park which featured an evening of music, entertainment, costume contest, and of course picnics.

This year's theme is "Some Enchanted Evening." The pet costume contest will be based on this theme. The "Some Enchanted Evening" Picnic in the Park theme will be branded as a whimsical fairy tale. You have the option to dress your furry friend in a variety of costumes from a princess, villain or even a mystical creature.

The entrance fee is $10, and contestants may apply at either TailsSpin location, or at the Savannah Department of Cultural Affairs on Henry Street. Payment may be made in cash, check or credit card at either TailsSpin location; cash or check only at the Department of Cultural Affairs. Participants are encouraged to donate more than the $10 entry fee.

All proceeds to benefit the Savannah Pet Rescue Agencies: Humane Society of Greater Savannah, Coastal Pet Rescue, F.A.C.T.S. and Save-A-Life, Inc.

Local celebrity judges are scheduled to attend the PAWrade at the Picnic in the Park, including Ted Dennard of Savannah Bee Company, Robert Espinoza of Fleet Feet Sports, John Davis of John Davis Florist, Megan Hartley of Savannah Rum Runners, and Celia Dunn of Celia Dunn Realty. This event will be hosted by Mark Robertson of the 98.7 The River, a strong pet advocate.

Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners. Blue Buffalo and TailsSpin will provide three months of 30 lb bags of Blue Buffalo and a $50 gift certificate to the first place winner, three months of 15 lb. bags and a $40 gift certificate to the second place winner and three months of 6 lb bags and a $30 gift certificate to the third place winner. Each winner will also receive a case of Blue Buffalo treats.

PAWrade at the Picnic in the Park is being co-sponsored by the City of Savannah Cultural Affairs Department, TailsSpin, Fleet Feet Sports, as well as media sponsors Connect Savannah and 98.7 The River.

TailsSpin Savannah is located in the Habersham Village Shopping Center, 4501 Habersham St., and at 473 Pooler Parkway, in the Pooler Publix Shopping Plaza.