Animal blessing is a religious activity which occurs in some religions like Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Unitarian Universalism, Shinto, etc; and it occurs in different forms. Animals that are blessed include pet or companion animals depending on their relationship or interaction with humans.
According to Wikipedia, Ceremonial blessings of companion animals takes place all over the world especially in Australia, Canada, Scotland, Spain and The United States.
In the secular world, respect for animals is also very strong. Example is the "World Animal Day" which is a day set aside internationally to take actions for animals right and welfare and it takes place annually on October 4th.
How Animal blessing began
According to Catholicculture.org, animal blessing dates back 800 years ago to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi who began blessing animals due to his love for animals and nature. His first animal blessing happened between 1210- 1215 during his early days in ministry; and the purpose was to give a special blessing to each animal individually.
Churches that conduct animal blessing
Animal blessing is done on October 4th annually, and the christians celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis with a blessing of animals and also praying for creation.
Catholic Church, United Methodist Church and Episcopal Church (United States) are known to have specific liturgies for animal blessing, emphasizing on creation and interdependence.
Sometimes the Catholic Church and Episcopal Church (United States) do combine to hold joint, ecumenical animal blessing ceremonies.
Significance of animal blessing
The blessing of animals signifies God's love for all creatures whether great or small.
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