Prayers For Pets

Dogs, cats, birds and many other animals are our dear companions. With their unconditional love they comfort us, listen without judgement, and wait for us to come home. They are the most unselfish friends in the world with which we share a deep emotional bond. Pets are part of the family and for many people, a pet is their only companion.

We would be privileged to take a prayer for your pet on our pilgrimage to Lourdes. You can write your prayer on the Prayer Intention Form on this website, mail it to us with a photograph of your pet, or send it via email. The prayers will be put in the intention box at the grotto at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Saint Francis of Assisi

The blessing of animals dates back 800 years to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi (1181–1226). Anyone who has had a pet or been around animals understands that not only does every animal have its own unique personality and intelligence, but that animals can be very responsive to the human beings around them. Saint Francis of Assisi is the patron saint of animals as well as the environment and was known for his unique bond with all kinds of animals! Saint Francis also created the first outdoor Christmas Nativity scene featuring live animals. He borrowed a donkey, a statue of the Baby Jesus, a bit of straw, and human volunteer to portray Mary and Joseph. In a cave, he created a living, breathing Nativity scene.

Saint Francis of Assisi belongs to the world, not just to Catholics and other Christians. His statue can be found in many public and private gardens, usually surrounded by animals and with a bird lighting on one of his hands. The Humane Society of the United States devotes a full page to Saint Francis on its website, and many ecologists and activists view him as the originator of what has now become the worldwide environmental movement.

Prayer for the Blessing of a Pet

Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired Saint Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.