NASHUA -- It is a common sight in malls far and wide each December; excited youngsters anxiously wait to get the chance to climb on Santa’s lap to share their lists and smile for that coveted picture.

But this week in Nashua, children of a different nature waited their turn to visit with Saint Nick.

“We don’t have children, so Klondike is just like our baby,” said Denise Vachon, speaking of her 16-year-old American Eskimo dog, who has been getting his photograph taken with Santa since his first Christmas.

This year, Klondike sported a holiday scarf for his moment in the spotlight.

“We take him everywhere, and we love to send out Christmas cards with his picture,” said Vachon, of Tyngsborough, Mass.

For two hours on Tuesday evening, dozens of four-legged family members waited in a line that stretched around Santa’s Village at the Pheasant Lane Mall. Some wore festive holiday attire. A few owners opted to hold their dogs or cats while posing with Santa.

“My son is off at college, so this is the next-best thing,” said Debbie Adley of Chelmsford, Mass. Adley brought her three pet dogs — including 150-pound bull mastiff Lenny — and hoped they would cooperate for a quick photo.

“I know it is strange, but we actually look forward to this each year,” said Adley, who was busy trying to handle her other dogs, a shih poo and a King Charles spaniel. “These are all of my boys, and it is their turn to sit with Santa now.”

Some pets were less than thrilled to be waiting in the crowded mall, including Buddy, a 5-year-old Pomeranian who seemed quite nervous. He was joined by owners Emily, Ashley and Chloe Wong of Tyngsborough, Mass. — all dressed in matching pajamas — as well as 2-month-old Spencer, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Some owners, like Kristina Ernst of Pelham, saw the event as an opportunity to give their pets the chance to meet other dogs and socialize with children. Ernst brought her cat, P.J., and English yellow lab, Lucas.