It was just the type of situation Liberty the llama likes best -- lots of people giving her lots of attention.

The four-and-a-half-foot-tall llama was just one of many pets strutting their stuff Sunday afternoon during the annual pet parade at the SEMO District Fair.

Liberty, so named because she was born right after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, sported a floral wreath and a red, white and blue sequined visor for her part in the parade.

"She's a people person, or llama, I mean," said 8-year-old owner Lauren Pratt of Scott City, Mo. "She loves kids and likes a lot of attention."

Pet parade contestants entered the grandstand arena to the tune of "Old MacDonald" -- some owners dragging their pets, some pets dragging their owners.

After a few minutes of standing in the sun waiting to be judged, the temperature began to take a toll on the pets. Panting, some flopped down at their owners' feet. Others used the opportunity to roll in the dirt.

Best of show

In the end, the best of show trophy went to Bailey, a 5-year-old Rottweiler pulling a papoose on a travois. Her three human companions wore authentic American Indian clothes. Owner Sandy Nance said Bailey hails from the Black Diamond Ranch in Cobden, Ill., where the dog works with special-needs children.

Carol Reimann, who has served as pet parade judge for the past four years, said she usually looks for the most creative costume when choosing best of show.

While Bailey won the three-foot trophy, all the pet parade contestants received a prize. Seven-year-old Shelby Mangels of Oak Ridge, Mo., dressed in cowgirl attire from hat to boot, and her dog Fancy, who wore a denim saddle with a rag-doll rider, were awarded the title of fanciest rider.

The award for best use of flowers went to 6-year-old Katelynn Long of Jackson, Mo., and her 1-year-old Jack Russell terrier, Lucy Locket, for their matching sunflower outfits.

"Lucy's a good dog because she licks me all the time, gives me kisses," Katy said. "She will stand up and dance if you hold up bologna, and she drags stuff around."

Awards for shortest legs, best use of straw hat, longest tongue, and best use of sequins ensured that everyone took home a prize.

Reimann is responsible for creating the unusual award titles.

A moment in the sun

"I love the fact that every kid gets their moment in the sun. Each of them get a prize, and everyone claps for them," Reimann said. "I enjoy doing this so much because it makes kids happy. They'll never forget the pet parade."

Patriotism was a common theme among the pets and their owners this year. Some carried miniature American flags, others donned red, white and blue costumes. Sunglasses, sequins and hats were also popular pet accessories.

Dogs were by far the most widely represented pet of the 29 entrants, ranging from boxers to labs, shih-tzus to spaniels.

Liberty, two kittens and one goat added variety to the parade.

Sunday's attendance at the fair was 14,400. The horse show drew 257 entries, up from last year.

cchitwood@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 128