Shepherd of the Valley will host pet blessing Saturday

Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church will hold a service Saturday for a Blessing of the Animals.

A blessing of pets typically takes place on or around Oct. 4 in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who is recognized as the patron saint of animals. This will be the fourth year the church will hold the event.

Organizers request that pets be on a leash, in a crate or haltered. Treats for the pets and their owners will be provided, as well as waste disposal bags.

The ceremony begins at 1 p.m. at the church’s pavilion, 1455 E. Yosemite Ave. Large and small pets are welcome.

This story was originally published September 29, 2015 at 5:13 PM with the headline "Shepherd of the Valley will host pet blessing Saturday."