On December 30, 2006, a band of six adventurers and their humans set off on the streets of Atlanta to find out just what the Chik-fil-a Bowl Parade was all about.  This was the fourth year that Golden Retriever Rescue of Atlanta (GRRA) attended the parade, and despite the inclement weather (rain and temperatures in the low 50’s), the smiles on the faces of the participants warmed the hearts of those lining the parade route.  OK, so it was the wagging tails and kisses from the retrievers. 

Our beautiful retrievers have become a favorite along the parade route.  The calls to bring a dog over for a pat and a hug can be heard above the music from the bands.  We occasionally have to count noses to make sure we haven’t left anyone behind in a throng of well wishers and fans.

The words of thanks for the work we do are wonderful encouragement to keep pressing on with the work of saving these wonderful dogs. Donations from the crowd along the parade route were an unexpected surprise this year. 

So, what was the Chik-fil-a Bowl Parade all about?  It was about letting people know about the work we do.  It was about making new friends along the parade route, with a wagging tail and a wet sloppy kiss from a retriever.  It was about being part of a community of volunteers, working hard to make the dog world a safer place.

GRRA will continue to be a part of this wonderful event as we carry on with our work of rescuing these beautiful dogs and giving them the forever homes they deserve.