Blessing pets in Harnham

The afternoon began with a Pet Service on the grass, where those attending sang along to songs like Louis Armstrong’s 'What a wonderful world' and Queen’s 'The world we created', as part of a short service on the theme of 'A Wonderful World'.

After the service, those with pets and cuddly toys queued to get their animals blessed. Those present were also able to take part in the many activities on site.

Those with dogs could enter into a Fun Dog show, with categories including the likes of ‘Dog most like its owner’, ‘Best young handler’ and ‘Best Trick’, or take part in the Doggy Dash. There were displays of pets, Eco stalls, animal-themed games, and traditional refreshments and ice creams.

For some families, attending the Harnham Pet Festival has become an annual event with one family saying to the vicar “We love coming here, we come every year!” Others have commented on how it has a real community feel.

Parish Administrator Linda Baker says:

"The Pet Festival began as an event to mark the 900 years of St George’s church and has continued each year since. The current aims of the Pet festival are to move worship beyond the building in a format that is accessible to all ages and to promote care for creation and an awareness of charities that support the care of animals.

"2019 was the fifth year and it appears to be increasing in popularity, with a little over 130 people attending."