Pets on Parade 2025

They might tip over our trash cans, bark at every car that drives by, and leave fur everywhere, but we couldn’t imagine life without the animal companions that add love and laughter to our homes. Thank you to all the readers who submitted their four-legged family members for this year’s parade. Give them a treat for us!

A$APA$AP is our wild-at-heart Carolina dog — part dingo, part kangaroo baby, part sweetest boy ever. At almost 10, he still runs with the young pups and chases squirrels like a crazy man. He recently had surgery to remove a tumor and was a total trooper. Known as “ASAPY-wappy,” “buboo,” and more, he’s quirky, loyal, and has the BEST smile. A true original with the soul of a wild thing and the heart of a best friend. A$AP is not just a pet. He’s a little legend. And every day with him feels like a gift! — Jessica Chlebowski

CheetahIs perception reality? How else to explain that I’m a little dog but I insisted my pet parent name me after a big feline? Apparently, I smell like flowers and can read, too. But just like with books, never judge an animal by its cover. Otherwise you might miss out on some great ones! — MG

Ivan DragoIvan Drago arrived to us in 2015 when we were living in Huntington Beach, California, from his homeland of Belarus! We figured he was close enough to Russia to deem him a worthy recipient of the esteemed name: Ivan Drago! Ivan is a DOOF like no other but the kindest pet I have ever known! He has personality oozing out of him and even greets our guests with a toothy grin as he lifts his lips. People love his big, blocky head, his uber soft and curly fur, and mostly his loving spirit. — Kathryn Martin

BodieWe rescued Bodie 10 years ago, and he has brought so much love and joy to our lives. He’s the ultimate lap cat and we love him dearly! Recently he was diagnosed with a heart murmur, so we’re taking real good care of him. Yes, he is very spoiled, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. — Kathy Blette

CopperCopper is the star of @copper.and.lily on Instagram. He’s an almost 8-year-old Australian labradoodle, a therapy dog, and a 35-pound baby. 18 months ago, he was diagnosed with incurable stage 4b T-cell lymphoma, which with chemo has a median survival of 6-9 months. Through the NCSU vet school, we started him on chemo within 72 hours after diagnosis. He’s a fighter. After going through 4 months of chemo he remained in remission and is defying the odds 18 months later! — Jenny DeZubay

GiaGia is surrounded by Italians, and her name is short for Gianna, meaning God’s gracious gift. She is the queen of the house and prefers a full and well-trained team around her. I call her G. Bichon poodles are teddy bear dogs. Everyone wants to cuddle a teddy, but you have to catch it. Gia is small and fox-like. She has eyes that swallow you and melt your heart even after chewing up your beautiful sofa for the third time. — Roger Coleman Gore

FernFern is a 7-month-old golden retriever who is SO loving, happy, and friendly to everyone. She LOVES belly rubs and snuggling and loves hanging out at the Downtown Cary dog park. — Courtney Bowman

Pepper & YukiPepper is an 8-year-old kitty who was adopted from The Goathouse Refuge and loves to be around people. If she is lonely, she will grab her pink ball and howl for you. Other times, she just retrieves the ball and drops it at your feet or cuddles with your shoes! Yuki was rescued from the woods as a kitten during the start of covid in 2020 with his momma and one brother. He was a mess who grew into a big, beautiful boy and learned “how to cat” from Pepper. Both of them are precious family members! — Kimberly Calhoun

GracieGracie was adopted from Saving Grace in Wake Forest. At the time, she was heartworm positive, but we knew she was the dog for us. Her sweet temperament and calm demeanor makes her the perfect companion for our young children. She has the cutest stripes, so she looks like a tiger! — Natasha Zellar

MooseMoose is the best companion! He’s a sweet rescue pup who loves helping his mom with her sewing or sitting on her lap. His favorite foods are cheese (in any form), sweet peppers, and cucumbers. He has a variety of nicknames including Moosey Goosey, Sweet Pea, Mr. Handsome, and Little Best Friend. He’s loved by everyone in the neighborhood and always happy to say hello! — Kori Mulholland

BobBob, our bearded dragon, showed up in our yard on June 29, 2020. When no one came forward to claim him, we happily adopted him into our family. Initially, we were a little intimidated by him, but we quickly discovered his gentle nature and love for human interaction. We love taking Bob outside on a leash to bask in the sun. Indoors, he likes looking out our front glass door and being free to wander around the house, finding cozy places to hide. — Deborah & Craig Wade

BuckyBucky is a kitten that I recently adopted from the SPCA. He is special because he looks just like Tom from the Tom and Jerry cartoon. Bucky is such a love and brings laughter back into my life. He loves to sit in my lap and be loved. — Robin A. Barham

BalooBaloo, a big, goofy pup named after The Jungle Book bear, came to Wake County Animal Center with multiple leg injuries. Passed over for rescue, he was finally fostered and is living his best life. He loves visiting the Downtown Cary Park, Bond Brothers, the Cary Farmers Market, and charming everyone he meets. A true teacup breed in a giant body, he proves every shelter pet deserves a second chance. — Leanna Camara

SageHi, my name is Sage, and I am a 3.5-year-old boxer. I like long walks on the beach, video games, and snoring obnoxiously loud. My mom nicknamed me Big Chunk, but I prefer Double Chocolate Chip Chunk because everybody loves those! — Lexi Dougherty

LeoLeo is full of personality — I honestly believe he thinks he’s human! He makes the funniest faces at me that are full of attitude and sass, and they never fail to make me laugh. He’s smart, playful, and walks with a little prance like he owns the sidewalk. Even though he’s small, he carries himself like a big dog, full of confidence. Leo is not just a pet — he’s my best friend, always showing love, keeping me entertained, and making every day better with his funny, lovable energy. — Kaylan Joseph

MacadamiaMackie is a 5-year-old English cream golden retriever. She is the most chill, high-maintenance pup you will ever meet — she thinks she’s human. She and her sister Cashew love playing together and going on family adventures! — Jayme Ferslew

BelleBelle is a black-and-white rescue cutie with a flair for mischief and charm. She loves to nuzzle for attention and, when you’re not looking, knock over your favorite figurines — only to wait and make sure you notice. When she’s not busy watching rabbits and birds in the yard, you’ll find her lounging gracefully by the piano. — Raleigh Rob

WinnieMeet Winnie, our resident ray of sunshine. Winnie is a goofy, gentle girl who is convinced that every person and animal is a new best friend, and who delights in popping out of hiding spots just to make us smile. She lights up the room and reminds us how much joy and warmth one little cat can bring. — Julie Ventaloro

CashewCashew is a 5-year-old blue merle Australian shepherd. She is the best family pup and guards her little brother (our human child) fiercely — they are best friends! When she’s not keeping an eye on him, she’s playing with her golden sister, Macadamia. — Jayme Ferslew

Rucker & BoeingRucker and Boeing are English Labrador retrievers who are the sweetest and most loving dogs. We call them our Appalachian State labs, as they are black and yellow, App’s colors. Plus, we spend part time in Boone. They love the mountains. They are my granddaughters’ favorite dogs, even over their own dogs. They truly bring us joy every day. — Stacey Bishop

OvedahI found Ovie at the start of a trailhead in SC. She had scratches on her face and matted fur on her chest. She was begging for pets, and after some debate, I decided to take her home and have her checked by a vet. They said she was about a year old; no chip, not spayed, and at least one intestinal parasite. Several vet appointments later, she was all cleaned up and my first fur baby as an adult. That was three years ago, and she’s turned into a little diva. I couldn’t imagine life without her. — Jasmine Garcia

Piper6-year-old Piper is all Cary, through and through. She’s a Cary lifer, reigning over our household downtown, and was even adopted from downtown Cary’s own Dog Warriors Rescue. She loves the summer heat and sun and especially the beach, but you don’t dare bring her near the water (she hates getting her hair wet). Although a diva at times, we couldn’t imagine life without our sweet snaggletoothed Princess Piper. — Jackie Minas

RubleRuble is a Dutch shepherd from Saving Grace. He was part of the money litter of pups including Lira and Pesos. I always hear from people with rescues how well behaved and loving their pets were from the start. Visit a rescue if you are considering getting a dog or cat. — Tina Miszewski

CharlieCharlie is a 9-year-old terrier mix rescue who is full of personality. He loves bread, watching for squirrels, and playing with his little sister, Lola. He will always talk back at you with his grumbles and makes himself the center of attention when he walks in a room. Charlie is the most perfect friend and a one-of-a-kind dog. — Jacob Harter

HoustonHouston is a rescue from — you guessed it — Texas. He is a good boy who is gentle and sweet. He enjoys being petted and chasing after those darn squirrels. Houston has a calming personality, which is rare in a JRT. He is wonderful with children and is a joy to be with. He’s visited nursing homes, UNC-Chapel Hill, and various workplaces. — Angela Mariano

PepperPepper is all eyes at the dinner table. Pep was a shelter cat who is now living the good life in Apex. She does earn her keep, however. Whenever we return home through our breezeway entry, she comes running and brushes her tail up against a set of bells hanging off a table chair to greet us with “Clang! Clang! Clang!” — Jan Jackson

Elena ArielElena Ariel (yes, named after not one but two Disney Princesses!) is named appropriately, as she is the queen of everything. She joined our family at a time when we had grieved the loss of another fur baby. Elena is the smartest dog and was potty trained in about two days. She weighed in at a whopping 2.5 pounds when she joined our family but did get some extra fluffiness in 2020. She is 8 and a barky drama queen at times but loves a soft blanket or a lounge in the sun in one of her many fluffy beds. — Melissa Scibor

BoBo is a rat terrier with a questionable criminal past and narcissistic personal disorder. He knows what he wants and knows how to get it, whether it be a tomahawk steak or total world domination. Although he’s feared by most, he’s beloved by his mom and dad. Bo just turned 12 and plans to retire from his tenure as a bunny hunter. He hopes to rent a condo overlooking the Cary Barkyard so he can judge other dogs’ outfits from the comfort of home. — Paige Randall

DakotaDakota is our handsome, goofy American golden retriever and the definition of a social butterfly. He’s never without at least one of his turtle toys — sometimes two or three at once! A total beach bum, he lights up the sand with happy zoomies, then curls up to watch movies like he actually gets the plot. Dakota loves every dog he meets and will smother anyone in kisses. He’s got a huge heart, a playful soul, and more personality than most people! — Nickolas John Bartle

HefnerHefner is a UKC Champion, National Champion, International Champion, National Honors Champion, International Honors Champion, and was number nine Presa Canario with UKC in 2023. — Sarah Pitkin

Charlotte & HenryThey are my shadows. My best friends. They are my protectors who are NEVER more than arm’s length away. Charlotte (German shepherd) is 13. We lost Henry to bone cancer at 7. They are my heart. They were the best of friends. Henry loved to wiggle his 98-pound body under the fence. — Lisa

DasherDasher is crazy about the water, ANY water! The only thing he likes better than water is chasing sticks! — Sylvia Bare

RoccoWho says Ridgebacks can’t fly? Rocco is 4 years old and will be an athlete for about an hour, then laze around all day and it’s back to his routine in the afternoon: walk, eat, nap, repeat. He’s not a fan of rain, but he’ll never turn down a treat (pretty sure that’s why he runs to the door when I get home). These days, the only thing he’s hunting isn’t lions — it’s snacks and the softest spot on the bed. — Arlem Mora

Bailey MaeBailey is a sweet Aussie doodle that loves to play and work. Not only is she my shadow during the day, but she is a certified therapy dog. She puts smiles on faces every week at Rex hospital and SECU Hospice House in Smithfield. She also loves to visit residents at the assisted living facility. She has to play ball every night. If not, you get talked to until you get up to play. Her long eyelashes are sure to catch anyone’s eye. — Carol Horne

DanyMy grand puppy Dany is the sweetest girl and loves her family so much! She smiles whenever we have family events and makes sure she says hi to everyone! She loves a good car ride and is the best snuggler! She is known to hog the bed by getting as close as possible to you, literally flopping into you for a hug. — Kiki Anderson

SchröderSchröder is a 3-year-old 13-pound longhaired miniature dachshund who thinks he’s 10 times bigger, stronger, and meaner than he actually is. Constantly on alert, he strives to keep his pack safe and sound at home, alerting us to any disturbance in “the force,” no matter how slight. “Intruders” are incessantly barked at until they reach down to pet him, at which time he stops barking, squats, and pees. He almost always is looking for a lap to sit on and something or someone to lick. — Jonathan Bitner

MaggieMaggie is a 7-year-old golden retriever. She is a gentle, loving girl. She loves to model the dog clothes that I make. I can take her anywhere and depend on her behavior and manners. — Jean Brannan

PippinPippin is the baby of the bunch. He’s a rescue from Pawfect Match. Pippin has a mischievous streak in him that is so adorable it makes a person forget how naughty he can be. He’s chewed seven TV remotes, countless pairs of shoes, socks, and my husband’s favorite hat! But apart from being naughty, he is a lovebug. He loves cuddles and giving kisses. He gets jealous of his brother and sister, however, being the baby, he usually gets extra hugs and an extra treat from time to time. — Angela Mariano

BanditBandit is a fun-loving husky who loves going to the park and playing with friends. He’s the sweetest cuddly boy. — Emily Jache

GabbyGabby Lynn Bailey is a female feral cat that I rescued from a cat shack in 2010. She has brown and black stripes, golden paws, and the biggest eyes I’ve ever seen on a cat. She is shy around strangers and tends to spend her time under the bed while they are present. She rarely meows but shows her affection by butting my head and trying to stare me down. She usually succeeds. — Ann Bailey

RockyMy dog Rocky is so loyal and affectionate. Everyone calls him their shadow. He loves to watch sports, swim, go for walks, meet new people, and will do anything for food! — Johanna Le Strat

AdrianAdrian is a 16-year-old Jack Russell mix. We adopted him from the SPCA in Raleigh when he was 3 years old. He came from a puppy mill and was very challenging to potty and house train. In the past year he became deaf, which is fortunate when we have thunderstorms and fireworks. He has a great personality, still thinks he’s a puppy, and loves everyone — people and dogs. Loves to sun bathe and stroll around the pool on hot days. Used to hike in his younger years. — Michelle

NordicNordic is a rescue border collie sold as simply needing a new home at 5 months. We have had six borders over our almost 50 years of marriage. We soon realized he has emotional issues not normal for borders. Even checked his lineage, border collie 100% for at least five generations. He loves his people and is extremely protective of who he loves. He is a sweet boy! — Marsha Wrenn Snyder

KikoKiko is a mini schnauzer with a load of personality. Her name is Japanese meaning rejoicing, hopeful, joyful child — it fits her perfectly. Kiko’s favorite pastimes are car rides, playing fetch with her Chuck-It launcher, digging for voles, and of course napping. As with all perfect pets she has her humans wrapped around her little paws. She is the perfect addition to our family, bringing a lot of love and laughter into our home. — Mary Gooch

SmokieHe has a very “chillaxed” attitude and loves walks and sunbathing. He’s very humanlike and sensitive to strangers and loud noises. But once he warms up to you, he will be your best friend for life! — Dave Gaebel

RainbowRainbow is the grande dame of cats. At 18 years old, she is as sassy and exciting as a young kitty. She’s the mistress of the house, and we all exist to satisfy her wishes. She deserves a spot on your top pet list! — Stephanie Watson

Sookie & CherCher is an almost 3-year-old calico who loves to parkour around the house! They’re the cutest dynamic duo. Follow along at @sookieandcher. — Megan Young

MellabooMellaboo is pretty camera shy and barely barks, but when she does show off her brown eyes, she knows exactly what kind of treat she wants: something with salmon, apples, or cheese ... maybe pumpkin, chicken, or blueberries? Turkey, peas, or peanut butter? Well, you get the idea! — MG

PackerPacker is our 12-year-old Boston terrier/Jack Russell mix. He is a key part to the heart of our family and the best big brother to our (two-legged) son, Atlas. My husband and I got Packer when we were in college, and he has literally grown up with us in the last 12 years with multiple moves, a wedding, and now our son. He has so much energy and loves like no dog I’ve ever known. When I was going through a dark time in postpartum depression, Packer never left my side. He is everything to us! — Quinn Bostic

PoppyNicknamed The Silver-Blue Queen of Chaos and Charm, Poppy is a bird-watching enthusiast. Her current greatest diplomatic challenge? Winning over the neighbor’s cat. While she greets every human and dog with unbridled joy, the feline remains ... skeptical. Unshaken, Poppy persists, convinced that one day they will be best friends. When it comes to food, she has refined and simple tastes. Gourmet ice cubes from the freezer and any form of eggs are her go-to! You will fall in love with her full-body snuggles, even if you are not ready for them! — Diane Kinlaw

BrunoOh yes, unlike the Encanto movie character, we talk about Bruno! Our Bruno is a handsome, unusually large 5-year-old black and white Pomsky with the fabulous flowing-in-the-wind fur and constant smile. He greets all adults, kids, or dogs by hopping on his back legs, running in circles, and wildly wagging his tail, expressing “I have never seen you before, but let’s be friends and have fun!” Bruno is handsome, and he knows it; he is always willing to have his picture taken by friends and strangers. — Angela Maes

TerraIrresistible Terra, the about 15-year-old male eastern box turtle, is likely the most unique pet in all of Cary! Unfortunately he had been injured, so he is unable to reproduce, no longer has a tail, and would be susceptible to infection and predation if we returned him back to the wilds of Durham County. He is a treasured pet of more than 10 years, and also likely has the most beautiful skin of all the pets in Cary. — Jessica Rose Pendergrass

RosieRosie is our 4-year-old collie girl. She loves long walks, people, and other doggo friends. But her favorite activity is to cuddle on the sofa. She knows many tricks, but she’s too smart, so she does them only if there is a reward. — Markovics-Koreny Nóra

MaxThis is Max — part border collie, part terrier, and likely part rabbit. He’s the one that made this family “dog people” after only being cat people for years. In our brief time with him he’s survived parvo and a bee sting to the eyelid, all without losing his happy demeanor. He loves drinking from a hose, eating things he shouldn’t, and a good belly rub. — Kristen Dykes

PippaPippa is a sassy, spicy 13-year-old terrier mutt who loves to visit her grandpawrents in Cary! She enjoys long sniffs through the park, begging outside of FRESH for any spare ice cream cones, and not-so-silently judging other dogs at Vicious Fishes and Bull City (RIP). All she needs is a bag of treats, a squeaky tennis ball, and an endless supply of belly rubs to keep her happy! — Leslie Siphers

GracieGracie is a 6-month-old mini Bernedoodle who has stolen our hearts and our crumbs since the day we brought her home. She is equal parts sweet and sass and has the best pouty face to get what she wants. We love this four-legged addition to our family. She’s the best! — Candra Hill

MacaroniMacaroni’s story started on the side of the road, where he was found abandoned and alone. Thankfully, a kind-hearted stranger stopped and rescued him, changing his life forever. I met Macaroni while transporting him to a foster home — but by the end of that ride, it was clear he was already where he belonged: with me. From the moment he stepped into our lives, Macaroni has been a constant source of joy. He’s silly, sweet, and always up to something that makes us laugh. — Traci Wooten Rando

KokoKoko is one of the sweetest and most endearing dogs known to mankind. Every single person who came in contact with Koko loved her and she loved them back. Koko was playful and engaging when she pranced around with all of her four-legged friends. — Sue Gaebel

MemphisMemphis is a rescue. He loves being around kids and protecting them. He has a mind of his own. He is clumsy, lays in the street, loves all his buddies in the neighborhood, and lets us know when it’s time to eat by sitting at the fridge. He’s our best friend. — Roxanne E.

LucyLucy Goosie is a rescue from Pennsylvania. She had a rough start in life, but now she’s living the life of a princess. She is the diva of the house. Lucy’s hobby is eating. She knows when it’s dinnertime, and she won’t let you forget it. She’s shy and sometimes runs and hides if there’s loud noises or talking. She’s a calm pup and doesn’t get excited unless she sees the treat bag coming out. — Angela Mariano

RudyRudy is a 3-year-old Australian Shepherd. His goofy personality endears him to everyone he meets. His favorite pastimes are being chased by anyone that will chase him, telling everybody that will listen about his day, wrestling with his BFFs (three cat brothers and a dog sister), and learning new things. He has learned close to 50 specific commands and competes in several dog sports. — Emily Butler

BelleBelle is a small Australian labradoodle who weighs 20 pounds, a small little dog. She has a big personality and an even bigger heart. She loves cheese, sweet potatoes, and veggie straws. She hates water and loves the snow. — Siya Patel

NolaShe’s my soul dog: part cuddle bug, part bodyguard (unless you’re a squirrel or a Yorkie — then she’s out). Loves kids, lives for belly rubs, and thinks frozen green beans are gourmet cuisine. Goofy, sweet, and better behaved than most humans. 500 words? Please. I could write a novel about this four-legged queen. — Andrea Rubin

More From Our Oct 2025 Issue

• Naōs Hellenic Cuisine
• Liquid Assets: Spice Ghouls
• Liquid Assets: Ginger Sage Paloma
• Garden Adventurer: Camassias: Blurple and More
• Small Business Spotlight: Decor Addict Interiors & Design
• Building Connection
• Pay It Forward: Dog Warriors Rescue
• Service with a Wag
• Erica Chats: Crisp Air & Clean Closets
• Things to Do: October 2025
• Meet Our Canine Cover Star: Baloo
• Pets on Parade 2025