FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE BREVARD HUMANE SOCIETY COUNTS THEIR “BLESSINGS” ON OCTOBER 4TH

All creatures, great and small, from guinea pigs and gerbils to cats and dogs, are invited to take part in a special pet blessing on Thursday, October 4th at 5:30pm from a local kind-hearted Padre at the Brevard Humane Society’s Heavenly Paws Chapel, located directly behind their Cocoa Adoption Center, at 1020 Cox Road.

The “Blessing of the Animals” which celebrates St. Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Animals, has become a beloved annual tradition for the Brevard Humane Society and the community alike. Over the years, quite an interesting array of animals, in all shapes and sizes, have attended the ceremony including ferrets, a horse, and a pot belly pig.

“While the Humane Society has held the Blessing of the Animals for past 12 years, it originated in the 13th century in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi, who believed that all animals should be treated with dignity and respect,” said Executive Director of the Brevard Humane Society, Theresa Clifton. “Every year I’m impressed by the animals and I encourage everyone to join us for this unique and amazing event that honors the pets who enrich our lives with their affection and unconditional love.”

All faiths are welcome to attend the event, as are all pets. There will be a short worship service, followed by light refreshments for the two-legged guests. Each four-legged guest will receive an individual blessing and a keepsake free of charge. A photographer will also be on hand to capture the evening’s participants and festivities which will be shared on the organization’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Brevard Humane Society/.  For any pet(s) that may have passed, or may be too frightened or frail to attend, a photograph or special memory item (collar, leash, etc.) is all that is required to receive a blessing. Meanwhile, all animals that are in attendance must be kept on leashes or in carriers for the duration of the service. For more information, please contact the Brevard Humane Society at 321.636.3343 ext. 204