But the owner is happy, and who knows what spiritual benefits may result. Usually the Blessing of Pets is held outdoors. But I remember it rained one year, and all were invited inside St. Stephen's Church in Manhattan. The pastor joined right in with his beagle. Some people criticize the amount and cost of care given to pets.
People are more important, they say.
Care for poor people instead of poodles. And certainly our needy fellow humans should not be neglected. However, I believe every creature is important. The love we give to a pet, and receive from a pet, can draw us more deeply into the larger circle of life, into the wonder of our common relationship to our Creator.