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Four-legged friends around Cape Coral and Southwest Florida can be blessed this weekend as part of a local animal shelter's annual event.
The Cape Coral Animal Shelter will host the sixth annual Blessing of the Pets this Sunday starting at 2 p.m., for owners, dogs, and cats of all backgrounds.
"This is truly one of our most emotional and inspirational events," said CCAS Executive Director Liz McCauley. "It is so great to see people who love their pets so much that they are an important part of their family."
This outdoor event is open to people and pets of all faiths. There will be a special service celebrating the special bond between pets and pet parents and each fur-baby will receive a special blessing from the shelter's special guests -- Pastor Mark McAnlis from First Congregational Church, the Rev. Denise Sawyer, and Chaplain Aimee Goldmeyer from Lee Health.
"Pastor Mark McAnlis, who leads the congregation at our neighbor church, First Congregational, has presided over this ceremony every year and we are grateful for his support and his excellent vocal and musical talent that he brings to the event," McCauley said. "Rev. Aimee Goldmeyer, chaplain at Lee Health, joined us for the first time last year and we welcome her back and thank her for her time and treasure."
CCAS has included special touches for a special day, including: prayer cards and a St. Francis medallion, honoring the Patron Saint of Animals, for each participant; a professional photo of attendees and their pet; and delicious baked goods lovingly prepared and donated by CCAS volunteers.
"Pets are part of our family, and they need our love and protection," McCauley said. "Our pastors also mentions the special relationship humans have with all animals during the service, and this is especially touching. The event is truly special, and our sponsors Mullins Funeral Home and Cremation Services and Raso Realty have donated beautiful St. Francis medallions and a special prayer card as a memento of the occasion."
McCauley said it can be an emotional day as well, seeing people connect with their pets and showing how much they care for them.
"It is so special to witness firsthand the special bond between pets and their families," she said. "We're always especially happy to see CCAS alumni at the event, knowing we had a hand in finding their forever, loving home."
Dogs must always be on a leash (no retractable leashes). Cats, critters, and other pets must be in a carrier. Deejay Frank Triguero will donate his time and services for the event.
Donations are encouraged and all proceeds support the life-saving efforts of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. To date, the shelter has found homes for more than 5,600 animals since opening in March of 2020.
"This community has been so supportive of our shelter from the very beginning," McCauley said. "We enjoy being able to host this special event to show our appreciation."
For more information on CCAS, visit www.capecoralanimalshelter.com.
CCAS is at 325 Southwest 2nd Ave.