Sammie Harris blessing a small dog at the 2016 Pet Fest and Blessing. (Submitted photo)
Grace Lutheran Church will celebrate its 16th Annual Pet Fest and Blessing on Saturday, October 7.
“This year’s event will provide a chance to spend a productive day with your pet while you gather important information about the services and associations available to pets and their owners,” a press release said.
The Blessing of the Animals is held in the pavilion behind the church at 4 p.m. The church will also hold a Bake Sale, Rummage Sale, and Silent Auction to raise funds for all the participating rescue groups. Boy Scouts and other volunteers will walk your pet while you shop.
Activities will take place from 1-5 p.m. and parking will be available for the mobility-impaired at the church or in the Woodland Elementary School parking lot behind the church.
“If you’ve been looking for a new pet, you will meet representatives from numerous pet adoption agencies, some of whom will bring animals that are available for fostering or adoption,” the press release said.
For a $20 donation, you may have your pet implanted with a microchip, courtesy of Dr. Paul Szluha of McArthur Animal Hospital. Proceeds from this procedure, above the costs, will be donated to the Heifer Project. For a $10 donation, you may have your pet vaccinated for rabies, with the proceeds going to animal rescue groups.
All pets should be well-behaved and must be on leashes or in carriers. Have a free picture taken with your pet. Participate in games, pet contests, special drawings, and activities for children, including pet-related crafts.
Watch interesting demonstrations. Become an art enthusiast by viewing the Woodland Elementary School pet art contest and voting for your favorite entry. Purchase tasty snacks and refreshments. You may even win a door prize!
Throughout the afternoon, Robbie and James will provide great music for your enjoyment, the press release said.
“The highlight of the day will be the blessing of the pets at 4 p.m.,” the release said. All pets will receive an individual blessing, a medallion, and a certificate. “This is a very special ceremony, and even the pets seem to appreciate it,” the press release said.
For more information about Grace’s Pet Fest & Blessing, check online at http://www.gracepetfest.org/.
“Everyone is welcome to join the fun!” the release said.
More information will be added as it becomes available.
Do you appreciate this story or our work in general? If so, please consider a monthly subscription to Oak Ridge Today. See our Subscribe page here. Thank you for reading Oak Ridge Today.
Copyright 2017 Oak Ridge Today. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Leave a Reply