How to Attend and Hold a Pet Blessing

Chances are you’ve heard the term “pet blessing,” but aren't sure what it entails (no pun intended) or what the purpose is. Well, the simplest way to describe a pet blessing is: A spiritual celebration to honor our loyal companions who love us unconditionally. The ceremony is normally held at a house of worship, although it can take place anywhere. If you live in a larger town, you will likely be able to find a pet blessing quicker than two shakes of a Lab’s tail--and if you can't find one--you can always hold one of your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Your pet or a photo of your pet
• Fliers or invitations
• Candles
• Certificates
• Music
• Refreshments (optional)
• A printed program for each guest (optional)

How to Attend a Pet Blessing

1. Find a ceremony to attend. The Blessing of Pets takes place most often on or near October 4 to commemorate the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi (the Patron Saint of Animals). Some are also held in the spring near Easter. Although Catholic Churches are the most common settings, a variety of other denominations and non-denominational churches, as well as Reform Synagogues, spiritual centers and animal shelters are starting to hold pet blessings. Synagogues hold pet blessings in the spring around Passover or in the fall after the High Holy Days. A good place to find a list of church pet blessings is AmericanCatholic.org. If you can't find your city, contact a local parish.
2. Consider if you would like to bring your pet along or simply bring a photo of your pet. If your pet isn’t able to attend (she might be under the weather or something really cool might be on Animal Planet), a photo will work.
3. Bring your dog on a leash and your cat or other pet in a carrier. Make sure your dog or cat has on a collar with current ID.

How to Hold a Pet Blessing

4. Conduct your own pet blessing if you can't find one in your area. It doesn’t require a theology degree to bestow a blessing upon pets. You might even consider making it a neighborhood or community event.
5. Locate pet blessing prayers online or a good resource is "Blessing of the Animals: A Guide to Prayers and Ceremonies Celebrating Pets & Other Creatures" by Diana L. Guerrero.
6. Add your own special touch to the service and adapt it to the time and place. For instance, mention animals in the news that may be in trouble.
7. Obtain candles for the service. Electric might work better around animals, but if you prefer traditional candles, be sure to keep them out of reach.
8. Have live or recorded music to lend to the experience. You might recruit a singer or soloist from a church or synagogue choir.

Tips & Warnings

• A pet blessing can also provide comfort if your pet is ill or deceased. You can light a candle in your deceased pet’s memory.
• Certain churches have drive-by pet blessings for the benefit of animals that are less socially inclined.
• If you can’t find a pet blessing in your area, suggest the idea to your local clergy or animal shelter.
• Don't bring pets that aren't people or animal friendly or that will be frightened.
• Consider having refreshments for the humans, as well as treats and plenty of water for their furry friends.
• Take the opportunity to make it a more complete learning experience. Put together a handbook or have literature available for participants to take home that teaches them how to support animals and live a more animal friendly life.
• Ask participants to bring donations for a local animal shelter.