|
|
|
List of all Articles in Animals
Here you can browse through a list of all the article titles in this category, or maybe search for an article that you have seen before and want to read again.
If you can't find what you're looking for here then why not try our related categories section.
Allergies in Dogs
Does your dog have allergies? It is interesting how dogs experience many of the health issues that humans do, including allergies.
Dog allergies can include skin allergies, dog food allergies (particularly corn and soy), house dust and dust mites,...
Dog Beds for Larger Dogs
Large dogs and extra large dogs require more thought and planning when owners purchase a permanent dog bed. Even though large dogs can be just as lovable as their smaller canine counterparts, they require a more complex sleeping situation than small...
Dog Health Conditions and Terms You Should Know, Part 3...
Continued from part two. Epilepsy/seizure disorder When your Boxer is between 2 to 5 years old, he may develop seizure disorder. When he has an epilepsy attack, he'd be unconscious and may look like he is not breathing but he is. He is not...
Going Places With Your Dog
Dogs do like to travel well. Adventurous by nature, they want to
check out new sights and sounds. They like to meet and see new
people. But this does not mean that traveling with a dog is as
easy as traveling with your clutch bag. Here are some...
URGENT Request For Hurricane Katrina Help By Humane Society!
Tuesday September 20, 2005
If you are a pet owner, I'm sure you must be heart broken by the images presented daily on CNN and all other TV stations, regarding pets that have been abandoned and still remain to be rescued in New Orleans and other...
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Blessing of the Animals in October
Each October, my dog and I participate in one of the nicest celebrations
a pet and owner can share - the Blessing of the Animals, a Catholic tradition that is duplicated
by other denominations.
Don't worry, I'm not going to try to convert anyone! I'm just going to describe this celebration
and suggest that those church goers among my readers might see if their church offers something similar.
Both our local Episcopalian
and Lutheran churches have similar celebrations.
The Blessing of the Animals commemorates the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4)
and his love for all animals. St. Francis was born in Assisi, Italy around 1181; founded the Franciscan Order of Monks; and died in 1226.
In the celebration which often takes place outdoors, a priest sprinkles holy water on your pet and says the following:
"Blessed are you Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters.
"We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures. Amen."
My dog was one of about 30 pets at
my church, including hamsters, cats, birds and a small goldfish bowl.
Incidentally all were well-behaved except for one cat who did not like being sprinkled!.
This celebration has gained popularity
especially in areas with large Latino
immigration. Rural residents in Mexico
and other Latin countries depend heavily on animals for their livelihood and are reassured by the priest's blessing.
Whatever the spiritual benefits that result, this is a lovely way to celebrate the love we get and give our pets.
About the Author
Louise Louis is a long-time dog person
and creator of www.ToyBreeds.com
|
|
|
|
|
|