Mardi Gras revelers come in all shapes and sizes. Nowhere is this more evident than the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux parade, a celebration of four-legged friends. Originally started in 1992 to commemorate the dogs lost in the early days of the Russian space program, over 1000 dogs and their humans have marched since, dressing in elaborate (and often matching) themed costumes. In 1999, cats joined in the fun, as well.

Enjoy the amazing pictures from the Barkus 2000 parade, with its "Joan of Bark" theme.