Pets parade through downtown Palatine

Pets large and small, from dachshunds to a Great Dane, dressed in elaborate costumes walked with their owners through downtown Palatine on Sunday for the annual Sweet Pea Pet Parade.

The event was sponsored by Foxglove Cottage and The Music Room, both members of the Downtown Palatine Business Association,

"It's always a nice event," said Larry Schroth, owner of Foxglove Cottage. "The people like the idea of coming down and dressing up their pets."

Almost 70 pets, primarily dogs, took part, with both pets and owners wearing costumes like uniforms of their favorite sports teams and foods like hot dogs and tacos. Some even came as other animals including sharks.

"I love this event because there are a lot cute animals," said Cheryl Rathe of Deer Park. "People are having fun. It gives everyone a chance to put their pets in funny clothing."

Pets were judged in various categories that included best homemade costume, best store bought costume, longest ears, shortest tails and biggest eyes.