All Creatures Great and Small welcome to Cathedral’s annual pet blessing

Friday, 28 August 2026 11:56

Salisbury Cathedral’s popular Service for the Blessing of Pets returns on Saturday 19th September, giving thanks for all our animal companions.

An 'All Creatures Great and Small' service of blessing for our pets will be an informal afternoon service that will bless and give thanks for all God’s creatures, and the joy and companionship they bring to our daily lives.

Aimed at children and families, all are welcome to come along with their pets, or bring a photograph of their favourite animal.

This uplifting service will take place at the west end of the Cathedral, with the large doors opening onto the lawn, for larger animals who are unable to enter the Cathedral.

Visitors are welcome to join the service inside the Cathedral or gather with their animals outside. The homily will be given by the Revd Sophie Ferguson, Assistant Curate, with the Revd Ross Meikle, Missioner of Young People, leading the service.

The last two years have been a barking success, with over 250 people attending last year with 60 dogs, guinea pigs, mice, cats, gerbils and a tortoise.

The Revd Ross Meikle, Missioner for Young People, said, “The pets and animals in our lives teach us so much about how to live well. When we care for them, we become servants of God’s creation. When we play with them, we know joy. At the end of their life, we learn about death, grief, and the hope of reunion in the world to come. They enrich our lives, combat loneliness and teach us how to love.

"This is service is an opportunity to remember, celebrate, and give thanks for the pets in our lives, blessing them as they in turn bless us.”

Further information can be found on salisburycathedral.org.uk, for information on accommodating larger and outdoor animals, please email marketing@salcath.co.uk.

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