Assisi Animal Foundation hosts blessing of animals

The annual Blessing of the Animals, hosted by the Assisi Animal Foundation, is set for Sunday.

The event is a community tradition in which the Rev. Dr. Warren F. Best provides a hands-on blessing for every animal attending, from hamsters to horses … and all in between.

The blessing begins at 3 p.m. sharp, rain or shine at McHenry County Community College, 8900 U.S. Route 14, a mile north of Route 176, where participants will gather near the pond.

Events in the past have seen llamas, prize-winning donkeys, horses, tiny goats, ferrets and -- of course -- numerous cats and dogs.

On occasion, owners have brought photos of animals at home who were ill.

All are welcome. There are no tickets or entry fees, but all pets must be on a leash or in a carrier, and in their owner's control at all times.

This event is one of the ways in which the Assisi Animal Foundation serves its community and residents.

In addition to sheltering dogs and cats in need of new homes, the AAF introduced animal-assisted therapy to the area in 1987.

This program takes selected pets from the shelter to visit residents of assisted living and retirement facilities. The activity is now accepted as being beneficial to residents of these facilities and now the AAF is being invited to serve Alzheimer's facilities.

Additionally, service is provided when possible to homebound seniors, hospice care and other special-needs situations.

The AAF also introduced a dog-bite prevention program to area classrooms to help protect area children.

The Assisi Animal Foundation welcomes volunteers to help in all phases of its work with animals, programs and events.

The next AAF event is the 15th annual dinner dance and silent auction Saturday, Nov. 3 at the Crystal Lake Country Club. Tickets are available at $60 per person until Oct. 29 or sell-out.

For information on the animal blessing, volunteering or programs, call the Assisi Animal Foundation at (815) 455-9411.