"We ask you to bless this pet. By 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."

My dog was one of about 30 pets at my church, including hamsters, cats, birds and a small goldfish bowl.

Incidentally all were well-behaved except for one cat who did not like being sprinkled!.

This celebration has gained popularity especially in areas with large Latino immigration. Rural residents in Mexico and other Latin countries depend heavily on animals for their livelihood and are reassured by priest's blessing.

Whatever spiritual benefits that result, this is a lovely way to celebrate love we get and give our pets.

4. They will look at you like you committed a crime against them if you don't let them lick your ice cream bowl.

3. They will cause wide spread happiness in large group settings.

2. They will crack you up by shaking their butts so hard you think they are going to snap in half.

And number one reason why you can't trust vicious Pit Bulls...

1. They will steal your heart like a thief in night, showing you complete and pure love that only a Pit Bull can show.