SHERMAN — Sherman’s Small Town Shelter is inviting the local community to come out and be involved in the Christmas fun by dressing up their pets and participating in the second annual Christmas Pet Parade.

The parade is set for Saturday at 3 p.m. in Edmund Park. Kelly Thornton, owner of Small Town Shelter, said that the event this year comes following the success of last year’s.

“Sherman is very involved in the month of December and last year the Chamber of Commerce and the Cooler asked if I would be interested in having a pet parade. It went very well and they decided to do it again,” Thornton said.

For this year, Thornton said more than just cats and dogs are welcome, and anyone who wants to participate can bring their animal to dress up in their Christmas attire and join in the parade — even including farm animals like chickens or cows if someone wishes. All that is asked is a donation be brought to help the shelter, and prizes will be given at the end. This includes having participants’ names put into a giveaway for baskets from local businesses.

Small Town Shelter is currently in need of non-clumping litter, Purina Cat Naturals Cat Food, Purina Dog Chow, chicken only, Caesar Soft Dog Food, Pork Chomps dog treats, Milkbone dog treats original, and 13 gallon trash bags, and are accepting donations of any of these items.

Thornton said last year’s event was a lot of fun, especially seeing the animals dressed up.

“Some of the dogs that have been adopted from Small Town Shelter attend, so it’s fun for me as well to get to see them again, and see them dressed up,” Thornton said. “All pets are welcome but need to be on a leash or contained in some way. This event also helps to support the shelter and our message to spay and neuter your animals, and to treat them like a member of the family.”

For Small Town Shelter, the event helps to bring in a lot of donations and helps them to get their name out into the community. Thornton said even after being around for five years, they are still unknown and are working to get people to learn more about the services they offer. Thornton thanked everyone who has been helping to support the shelter.

“I also want to thank the Chamber of Commerce for allowing us to participate in the Christmas activities,” Thornton said. “Also look for us in the upcoming Light Up Tractor Parade (on Dec. 14 at 6 p.m.), and come to that as well because it’s cool.”