TAILS Humane Society, 2250 Barber Greene Road, held its annual fundraiser, Mutt Strut-Dog Walk and Fun Fest, on Saturday at Hopkins Park.

The event allowed both dog-enthusiasts and owners to bring their furry friends for the afternoon.

The walk began with the inaugural 5K-9 Run for the Rescues, helping raise funds for TAILS as well as the multitude of dog rescues present, such as Northern Illinois Pug Rescue and Forever Friends Great Dane Rescue.

Cindy Pakenas, a site manager for As Good As Gold, Golden Retriever Rescue, talked about how important the TAILS event was and their mission as a dog rescue.

“These dogs come from all over Illinois,” Pakenas said. “We get them from owner give-ups, animal shelters and we’re often the first and best place for them to go. We have never refused a dog in need.”

As the Mutt Strut continued, dogs took center stage as they competed in a number of events, including agility demonstrations, PETCO sponsored contests and dog Olympics hosted by Dog Scouts of America Troop 208. One event that caught the eye in particular was a DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office K-9 demonstration.

The number of dogs up for adoption was highlighted by the Mutt Strut’s organizers. At the TAILS adoption site, Courtney Bozman, a TAILS employee, explained the adoption goals for the day.

“We have three puppies with us with a total of nine dogs.” Bozman said. “We are hoping and anticipating that they will all be adopted here today.”

Shawn Hepker, a Mutt Strut volunteer, emphasized how easy it was to get involved.

“I heard that they said they needed volunteers,” Hepker said. “Anyone can go into TAILS and volunteer,”