(WTXL) — Matthew Smith with Mission San Luis & Friends of Florida History, Inc. joined us on WTXL Sunrise Wednesday morning to talk about Blessing of Animals at Mission San Luis.
Pet owners, animal lovers, and furry, feathered, or scaly friends are invited to the fifteenth annual Blessing of Animals.
The Blessing of Animals originated in the 13th century in remembrance of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, who believed that all animals should be treated with dignity and respect.
Here's some of the things being offered:
--- Individual blessings for animal companions in the reconstructed 17th-century Franciscan church Blessings by area clergy; Free certificates & online photos
--- Crafts for children
--- Living history (including historic cooking and blacksmithing demos)
--- "How Was I important" Florida Native Animal identification game
--- Animal organization booths: -- Information -- Pets for adoption
Animal displays/demos:
--- Marine touch tank exhibit (FSU's Sea–to–See Program)
--- Butterfly & caterpillar display (University of Florida Extension Master Gardner Program)
--- FAMU Entomology Program interactive insect display & race
--- Tallahassee Museum with a live alligator and possum
--- Demonstrations of a Paso Fino horse (Echo Farms)
--- Scent Detection Dog demonstrations at 11 am, Noon, and 2 pm
--- Plus dog toothbrushing, rescue animals, animal therapy, and more!
Animals must be on leashes or in carriers. You are asked to bring pet food and supply donations for area animal shelters.
It's all going down on Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mission San Luis (2100 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee FL 32304). The event is free and open to the public.
For more information, call 850-245-6406 or visit www.missionsanluis.org.
