Dogs, cats, birds and even fish are taken to many churches in the United States by their Catholic owners to be made holy for the divine spirit.
And some people even bring photos of their pets if it is difficult for their pets to attend the blessing.
The services may include a verbal blessing and holy water and are usually held at a place where difference animals can gather, outside or inside.
The Feast, which many churches in the United States celebrate on October 4 every year, celebrates the patron saint of animals and the environment St Francis of Assisi.
Many children bring their parents to the church to be blessed on St Francis’ feast day because of his love for animals as expressed in his Canticle of Creatures.
Some churches ask people to bring animal food or blankets to be donated to a local animal shelter around this time of the year.
The Feast of St Francis of Assisi gives many educators, caregivers and animal rights organisations an opportunity to teach children about endangered or abused animals and what can be done to help save these animals.
Pet blessings occur in states – but are not exclusive to – such as Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington.