Potatoes, peppers, peas, parsley and ... a puppy?

Visitors to the Libertyville Farmers Market this summer might be tempted to pick up a little more than fresh produce.

For the third year, eager spectators of all ages and from all walks of life have been flocking to Animal Education and Rescue's tent for a peek at dogs up for adoption.

"It's a kid and people magnet," said Polly Kasdorf, manager at the farmers market. "People can't help but to turn their heads at the cute little puppies and kitties featured under their tent."

Striving to enlighten the community about the benefits of human-animal relationships, the members of Animal Education and Rescue in Libertyville facilitate adoption through medical rehabilitation, pet therapy programs, community involvement and education. This season at the farmers market, the rescue group has already found homes for 15 dogs.

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"The market is a great venue for the community to meet some of the animals," said Sandy Wisniewski, the group's founder and president. "The animals we show here are all kid- and family-friendly."

Every Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., volunteers and the rescue's We Care Youth Club gather near Cook Park on Church Street to hand out informational pamphlets and volunteer applications and to educate onlookers about adoption.

Blitzen, a Chihuahua, and Vixen, an Italian greyhound-Chihuahua mix, were two of 60 dogs rescued from an animal hoarder in Wisconsin. They're being fostered at the Care Animal Hospital in Libertyville, where members of the rescue group go regularly to walk and play with them, said Sydney Spracklen, 9, a youth club member.

The short-term goal is to keep the animals happy. But ultimately, the group hopes to find them homes.

"Sawyer, a Chihuahua-terrier mix, has been sitting at the animal hospital for three weeks now, and his condition is declining," said Leah Fishman, 17, president of the youth club. "Even though he is well taken care of at the animal hospital, he really needs attention from a willing foster home or family."

Since September 2003 the group has actively found homes for more than 650 animals. "So far the farmers market has been great for getting the word out," said Fishman. "Anyone interested can stop by and visit the animals up for adoption."

The group won't stop when summer is over.

"Our next large event is Nov. 2 at Care Animal Hospital," said Wisniewski. Pets will be able to get microchipped and get their nails clipped. Volunteers will also be on hand informing people about pet safety and first aid.

For more information about the Animal Education and Rescue group, visit www.aear.org or call (847) 816-0831.