HELENA – Students, faculty and community members gathered at Carroll College on Thursday, October 4 for the annual Blessing of the Animals.
Father Marc Lenneman lead the the yearly tradition which coincides with the Feast of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals.
Each of the Anthrozoology program dogs were present for the blessing with their handlers.
Carroll College Junior Annie Gray has spent the last month working with her dog Sandy and said human-animal interaction is very beneficial for both the animals and people involved.
“When taking dogs out for walks you’re going to get your exercise as well as giving them their exercise and it’s also beneficial for your mental health,” said Gray, “I think a lot of people can benefit from having an animal.”
The Very Rev. Scott Anderson of St Peter’s Episcopal Cathedral also visited the Lewis and Clark County Humane Society on Thursday for the Blessing of the Animals.
Anderson and members of the church visited with the pets and staff at the shelter and expressed their gratitude for all they do for animals in the community.
Anderson said it’s important to love every pet but especial those in a transition period hopes they all soon find homes that will love them.
“These animals find themselves in a place that’s not normal for them.” said Anderson, “It’s stressful and the wonderful people of the Humane Society work incredibly hard to get these animals back into homes that will love them.”
- Reported by John Riley
