SAN ANTONIO – Get ready for some serious cuteness! The 2026 Pooch Parade is set to take place in San Antonio, and organizers are expecting over 4,000 dogs to join the fun. This lively event, known as the “paw-ty” with a purpose, will benefit the Therapy Animals of San Antonio, a local organization dedicated to bringing joy and comfort to those in need.
The official kick-off is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, at the Alamo Heights Swimming Pool, located at 250 Viesca St. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gather with fellow dog lovers and enjoy the festive atmosphere while supporting a worthy cause.
This year’s honorary King Anbarkio is Teddy, a charming 7-year-old goldendoodle rescue. Teddy, along with her handler Brandy Lawson, embraces the responsibilities that come with wearing the crown and collecting Fiesta medals. “(Teddy) seems to really enjoy it,” Lawson shared. “She loves attention. She loves meeting new people.”
Teddy isn’t alone in her royal duties; she has furry companions who are also certified therapy dogs. Cameron, a 10-year-old German shepherd, is the King Anbarkio-in-waiting, and Apollo, a 6-year-old golden retriever, rounds out the trio. These dogs play an essential role in providing comfort and companionship to people in various settings.
According to Aileen Holeman, an evaluator with Therapy Animals of San Antonio and Apollo’s handler, their mission is to offer a stress break for the humans they encounter. She explained that besides training, the temperament and interest in people are key traits for therapy animals. Interestingly, therapy animals can be not just dogs, but also cats and even bunnies!
Barbara Abbey, Cameron’s handler, describes their bond as a partnership. “One doesn’t go without the other,” she said. “You have to pass as a partner, and you have to be a partner. He’s my best bud.” Such connections are pivotal in the work these dogs do, helping to ease anxiety and promote healing.
The Pooch Parade is not just a fun day out; it serves a greater purpose by allowing volunteers to support the mission of Therapy Animals of San Antonio. The therapy teams frequently visit schools, hospitals, and workplaces to spread joy and uplift spirits, especially among those facing challenging times. “I’ve seen it help, like in Kerrville,” Holeman recalled. “We were sitting visiting with some of the families, and that gave the adults a minute to regroup and focus on what they needed to do while I was visiting with some of the kids.”
The Pooch Parade is crucial for funding the therapy program’s activities for the entire year. As Lawson noted, “The pooch parade pays our bills for the entire year.” This heartwarming event not only celebrates our furry friends but also underscores the importance of therapy animals in our community.
