A Miracle Happened on 49th Street.... And ....Yes, Fido, there is a Santa Claus. Two takes on classic Christmas vernacular.

A lot of dogs got to see Santa for the first time on December 1 at the Paw Patch Animal Hospital at 49th and College. The dogs were not too sure what to think of him but a lot of them lined up to get their pictures taken by photographer Claire Corbin. It was such a fun event! The miracle on 49th Street was that, just like children, no dogs got upset, none were too frightened and nobody wet on Santa or pulled his beard off. Although, as you can see by the picture below, there were a few close beard concerns. 60 Minute Cleaners, next door neighbor to the Paw Patch, stood ready to assist Santa if his suit became soiled but all the cleaners had to do was clean Santa's suit free of pet hair so he could be fresh and ready once again to see children at Garfield Park and assorted Christmas Parties. Many of the dogs dressed in their holiday attire for the photo session. Two Dachshunds came with reindeer antlers, a Boston Terrier had a red Santa dress complete with black patent leather belt, a Bichon wore a Christmas coat, several dogs had Christmas scarves and a Westie named Tiny took the prize with his elf look. Some dogs even brought their human kids with them. Blue II, Butler University's Bulldog mascot, was on hand as were many different vendors. There were refreshments for people and pets.

All the photos were wonderful but perhaps the best and most challenging was the one of Santa and four dogs. Corbin captured all four looking at the camera. It was perfect. Everyone agreed that this was such a "howling" success it should become an annual event. Santa said that all the pets were on his nice list and he would come back next year. Thanks to Jerry Taber, a Broad Ripple resident, for being such a loving and photogenic Santa. Mark your new 2008 calendars for December 6. Ho Ho Ho! Pets make you smile!