Pioneer Lake Lutheran Church will host a community pet blessing Sunday, Aug. 23, at 3 p.m. at the church, 3697 Pioneer Church Road in Conover.
The free event is open to the public, and all pets are welcome as long as they are kept on leashes or in carriers.
“We would love to have more than just dogs and cats,” said Valerie Hogan, a church member and one of the event organizers. “You could bring gerbils, you can bring bunny rabbits. One year we had a rooster. One year a little boy brought his pet turtle.”
During the event, the pastor will personally bless each animal.
“She gets right down there to the animal’s level and gives them a blessing,”
Hogan said. “And there’s some songs and a couple of prayers for the pets. Some people have brought their pets that they know are dying, and that’s fine too.”
The event was started by Bill and Joanie Green. After Bill’s passing, Hogan and other church members joined Joanie in continuing the tradition.
“We as humans get blessed and go to church. Why not our animal family members?” Hogan said. “But the Greens wanted it also not only to bless the pets, but as a way of giving to the community. And our church is really all about that.”
In previous years, the church partnered with the local humane society for the event, but more recently has partnered with Totally Pawsome, which Hogan described as a food pantry for pets. Donations of wet or dry dog and cat food, kitty litter and pet treats will be accepted to benefit the organization.
The event will also feature hot dogs, chips and lemonade, along with a silent auction featuring gift baskets, gift certificates and other items donated by businesses in Land O’ Lakes, Phelps, Conover and Eagle River.
Weather permitting, the event will be held outdoors.
For more information, call 715-547-6209.
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