SPCA AUCKLAND

Reminder - 1st October 2009

Animals Invited To Their 'Event Of The Year'

Auckland's coolest cats and most debonair dogs will be making their way to the animals' social event of the year, this coming weekend. Rabbits, donkeys, sheep, chickens, goats, parakeets and members of a wide range of other species are thought likely to join them.

SPCA Auckland's annual Blessing of the Animals service is to take place on Sunday 4th October at the Church of St Matthew-In-The- City, commencing at 1.00 pm.

"Not only are the animals themselves cordially invited. We'd like each one of them to bring along at least one human and, better still, a whole family, for a great day out in the company of other animal lovers," says SPCA Auckland's Executive Director, Bob Kerridge.

"The service isn't, however, just a social event. It honours the memory of St Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and is an opportunity for us to celebrate and give thanks for the love, loyalty and joy that animals bring to our lives and homes.

"During the service, we will be commemorating all animals that have died in the past twelve months and, particularly, those killed through cruelty and violence. This year, our Candle of Remembrance is to be lit by Marc Bekoff, a world-renowned author and advocate for animals. We're delighted that Marc will be in New Zealand and is able to join us for the service," he says.

"We would like all dogs and larger animals to come with humans attached to their leads and for other smaller animals to come suitably contained in safe caging. For their part, humans are requested to bring a plastic bag or popper scooper with them," Mr Kerridge adds.

At the end of the ceremonies, all the animals present will be blessed by Christian and Buddhist clergy as they leave the church.

The Blessing of the Animals service is to be preceded by the 'Great Animal Walk', along Queen Street and up Wellesley Street to St Matthew's, with music provided by The Society Jazzmen. The march commences at 12.15 pm. Participants are requested to assemble in Queen Elizabeth Square at 12.00 noon.

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