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Bless your pet this Sunday

BELIEVED to have originated around 800 years ago, globally, the trend to have an annual Blessing of the Pets service is growing in popularity, with the Anglican Church in Hamilton hosting a service this Sunday at 10:30am.

Something that St. Francis of Assisi is thought to have introduced was the idea that human beings are only one of a myriad of God’s creations and all creatures are deserving of His blessing.

Local veterinarian, Dr Lauren Alexandra-Shrive, said the annual pet blessing is a day of fun that celebrates the many wonderful gifts God has created, including a pet.

Dr Alexander-Shrive said people have been asking her when the next Blessing of the Pets service would be held.

“It’s been an annual service event for a number of years with an array of pets and their owners coming along,” she said.

“We’ve had a pony, sheep, a rooster, of course dogs and cats galore, goldfish and birds in cages.

“Someone even asked me if they could bring their pet python.”

Whilst owning a pet comes with responsibility and financial costs in terms of required vaccinations, registration fees and food, the benefits of owning one can be well worth it.

For people who live alone, a pet can be a true blessing and their only companion – a much needed friendly welcoming party for when someone may return home after an outing or a long day at work – they can be affectionate, accepting, loyal, honest and consistent.

If someone feels isolated and without support, a pet can help to reduce loneliness and comes with the added advantage of keeping whatever they are told, confidential.

The Australian Medical Association Victoria website states most people will feel better after simply patting their pet.

It states it can “cause the release of oxytocin, which in turn stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine which can lift our mood”.

Dr Alexandra-Shrive said there are certainly advantages in owning a pet.

“There’s a number of health benefits,” she said.

“It can force people outdoors into the fresh air and gets people exercising.

“Taking a pet for a walk has been linked to reduced anxiety and blood pressure.”

However, Dr Alexander-Shrive said the actual pet blessing is more for people to show their love and appreciation of their pets and what they mean to them.

“There’s people who don’t go to church but want to participate in the service to recognise that God is taking care of their pets, looking over them and after them,” she said.

She said the service itself can be bedlam, with so many owners and a variety of pets inside the church building.

“Oh, its madness – but it’s great,” Dr Alexander-Shrive said.

“I would just ask that people keep their pets restrained on a lead or in a cat box or cage.

“And just make sure that pets are toileted before they come.”

Dr Alexander-Shrive said everyone was welcome.

“It’s just a nice family event for anyone in the community – it’s fun,” she said.

All are invited to attend and bring their pets.

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