Join SPCA Auckland this weekend for the Blessing of the Animals and The Great Animal Walk

SPCA Auckland is encouraging all animal lovers to join in celebrating their pets with The Great Animal Walk and Blessing of the Animals on October 2.

At The Great Animal Walk people and their pets of every species, shape and size will parade through the streets of Auckland City, escorted by the Police and a group of SPCA Inspectors. Beginning at 12.45pm at Victoria Park on Sunday 2 October, the parade will finish at St Matthew-in-the-City in time for the Blessing of the Animals service.

The service, which is held in many countries in the world, is held on the nearest Sunday to the Feast of St Francis, the recognised Patron Saint of Animals.

On this special day all animals great and small are welcome inside the church for the service. In past years animal guests have included dogs from Chihuahuas to Great Danes, turtles, birds, goldfish, miniature horses, cats, and even a bull.

“The Blessing of the Animals is a wonderful way to celebrate animals and the joy they bring to our lives,” says SPCA Auckland Executive Director Bob Kerridge, who has organised the event for the past 32 years.

“Animals line the church aisle and pews and “sing” along to the hymns with great enthusiasm. It’s perfect pandemonium and it truly is a sight to behold,” says Bob.

The event finishes with the blessing for each animal from the ministers, which gives spiritual comfort to many, says Bob.

Event details:

The Great Animal Walk: assemble from 12.15pm for a 12.45pm start at Victoria Park, corner of Victoria and Halsey Streets, Auckland.

Blessing of the Animals: 1.30pm-3pm at St Matthew-in-the-City, 187 Federal Street, Auckland CBD.

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