Last year, Nicki Andersen dressed up her pooch in a chicken costume to take part in a fundraising walk that benefits an animal shelter in the northern part of Illinois.

This year, Andersen's dog Hannah was decked out in John Deere clothing during the 2010 Mutt Strut, which provides funds to the TAILS Humane Society in DeKalb, Illinois, according to the Daily Chronicle. The benefit helped kick of the 29th Annual Cortland Festival and Parade.

"Many of the individuals who took part in the event said that they were excited to walk because it was for a good cause and they cared about the well-being of animals," the newspaper said.

The animal society depends on these types of fundraisers, along with donations and grants, in order to continue the services it provides. Because many portions of the area include smaller rural towns, issues such as feral cats and strays may necessitate humane programs to help deal with them.

DeKalb County also features other activities tied to farming, including the Corn Fest. The annual celebration offers area residents the chance to reconnect with their agricultural roots and support local businesses.