Pets take center stage Sunday at Frontier Days
Families and their favorite pets took center stage Sunday as day three of Arlington Heights' Frontier Days festival featured its annual pet parade at Recreation Park.
Pets were judged in several categories, including cutest, most unusual, pet that looks most like its owner, best dressed and best trick.
"I love it because it brings out all these families and children. They plan ahead what their pets are going to wear in the different categories we have," Frontier Days Festival Co-Chairwoman Pat Perry said. "The animals are wonderful."
Several pans of ice were placed around the park to keep animals cool on the hot day as they took turns crossing the stage to exhibit their talents and beauty.
About 30 dogs and one cat participated in the parade, with some wearing patriotic costumes and others dressed in baseball uniforms. One Yorkshire terrier came as Santa Paws and rode in a sleigh, while Lily Brown, 4, of Arlington Heights and her dog, Pipie, dressed as Belle from Disney's "Beauty and the Beast."
"We look forward to it every year. It's fun for the dogs and its fun for us," said Sheelagh Tittle of Arlington Heights, who showcased her mixed breed beagles, Gracie and Riley. "They like seeing the other dogs and the people."
Other highlights from Sunday included the Stampede Run in the morning and a decorated lamp competition and water fights in the afternoon.