Story by Friends of PACC
The Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade has become an annual highlight for pet lovers in Tucson and surrounding areas. The 2025 Parade took place on March 2 and did not disappoint. The Parade is a cacophony of visual delights, featuring countless pets of all types and sizes, along with traditional Parade elements such as bands, floats, classic cars, and entertainers. It’s nearly impossible to pick favorite memories from the Parade. Still, adding new large inflatable animals was very noticeable, promising the event’s growth as Tucson’s homegrown version of the famed Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.
However, the pets on display always steal the show. This year’s version of the Parade featured dogs, cats, birds, snakes, lizards, pigs, and more, many dressed to impress.
The Parade started strong with Tucson High School’s Marching 100 band leading the way, followed shortly after by representatives from Pima County Sheriff’s K9 division honoring fallen canine officer Kenzo, who was posthumously recognized as the Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade Grand Marshal. Kenzo was stabbed in the line of duty and ultimately succumbed to his injuries. “K9 Kenzo was more than just a partner – he was family. His dedication, loyalty, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. As we honor him at the PACC Pet Parade, we remember the unwavering bond between our K9s and their handlers and the incredible service they provide to our community,” said Sheriff Chris Nanos of Kenzo.
The Tucson Subaru Pets of the Year contest winners served as fellow Marshals, with Hank the Tank leading the Raising Cane’s Procesion de los Perros and Mr. Rocket served as honorary leader of the TEP Cat Convoy.
Several other local animal welfare nonprofits and rescues joined the fun this year, enhancing the Parade’s appeal as a celebration for the entire community.
Friends of PACC Executive Director and Parade organizer Torre Chisholm said, “Animal lifesaving is a community-wide endeavor, and while the Parade is primarily intended to support Pima Animal Care Center, we are pleased to include many other local organizations and individuals who contribute to the well-being of animals. Working together, we can save more lives.”
Following the Parade was the Friends of PACC Festival along Tucson’s 7th Street near historic 4th Avenue. Highlights of the Festival were the HSL Adoption Extravaganza at CORBETT’S, featuring adoptable pets from multiple rescues, vendors and sponsor booths, and live entertainment provided by Arizona Music Connection. Fourth Avenue Merchants Association managed the vendors this year, greatly expanding the variety and offerings from previous years. The unique activities at Poe’s Tucson were new to the Festival, including the Mystic Creatures Art Invitational and tattoo artists from Spark Project Collective.
If you couldn’t attend the Parade this year, you can still catch the FOX11 broadcast of the event, available on Friends of PACC’s YouTube channel. Proceeds from the Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade help fund lifesaving programs at PACC and support new initiatives like the Friends of PACC Community Pet Clinic, opening March 2025 at 2661 N 1st Ave. Donations are still being accepted at www.petsofpimaparade.com and www.friendsofpacc.org.
