While they say all dogs go to heaven, Cape Coral pet owners can hedge their bets and bring their four-legged friends — cats included — to the local animal shelter to be blessed this Sunday.

The Cape Coral Animal Shelter’s second annual Blessing of the Pets takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 3 in honor of the Feast Day of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals.

“We had such a great turnout for this special event last year, despite inclement weather. People really enjoyed it,” said CCAS Executive Director Liz McCauley. “Our pets are a very important part of our families, providing us with joy, companionship and unconditional love. Showing our gratitude for their presence in our lives is a beautiful thing.”

The outdoor event is open to people and pets of all faiths and features Pastor Cindy Jones of Grace United Methodist Church and Pastor Mark McAnlis of First Congregational Church. Dogs must be leashed at all times (non-retractable) while cats, critters, and other pets must be in a carrier.

Each participant will receive a prayer card and St. Francis medallion. There will be a photo station and a bake sale as well. Animals currently in the shelter, not just brought by members of the community, will not be forgotten at the event.

“The pastors will say a special blessing for our shelter animals, hoping they find their forever family very soon,” McCauley said.

Donations to the shelter during the event are encouraged and all proceeds support the lifesaving efforts of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. To date, the shelter has found loving, forever homes for more than 1,700 animals.

“Every dollar raised goes directly to the care of the animals whose lives we save,” McCauley said. “The cost of medical care alone is overwhelming. On any given day, we have 110 to 120 animals in our care. The support of the community is very important to help us continue the lifesaving work we do.”

Cape Coral Animal Shelter is at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave. For more information, visit www.capecoralanimalshelter.com.

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