The Spirit of St. Francis
Every October, communities celebrate St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology, with the Blessing of the Animals. In San Francisco, pets of every shape and size line up—tails wagging, whiskers twitching—to receive a blessing for health and happiness.
But here at Pet Camp, we like to turn this idea on its head: while our campers may be blessed by clergy, it’s really we, the pet parents, who receive the greatest blessings.
The Blessings Our Campers Give Us
- Everyday joy: A wagging tail or a soft purr can brighten even the toughest day.
- Unconditional love: Pets don’t judge; they meet us with pure affection.
- Connection to nature: Walks, hikes, and park time remind us to slow down and breathe.
- Community ties: From neighborhood meetups to strolls around our neighborhoods, our pets connect us to each other.
St. Francis saw animals as fellow creatures deserving care and respect. That spirit lives on whenever we create safe play, enrichment, and space for pets to be their happiest selves.
Blessing of the Animals Events in San Francisco (2025)
Here are local celebrations—with links so you can confirm details and plan your visit. Dates are explicit for clarity (Feast Day is Saturday, October 4, 2025; many blessings happen that weekend).
- Grace Cathedral — Sunday, October 5, 2025
Pets are welcome at all Sunday services; individual blessings follow on the plaza.
Times: 8:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 6:00 p.m.
Address: 1100 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108. - St. Francis’ Episcopal Church — Sunday, October 5, 2025
Community blessing in the courtyard at 11:15 a.m. (pets welcome at the 10:00 a.m. service).
Address: 399 San Fernando Way, San Francisco, CA 94127. - St. Ignatius Parish (USF) — Saturday–Sunday, October 4–5, 2025
Blessings offered at the end of all weekend Masses.
Address: 650 Parker Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118. - Swedenborgian Church (Pacific Heights) — Sunday, September 21, 2025
Pet Blessing Service at 11:00 a.m.
Address: 2107 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94115. - Mission Dolores Basilica (Mission District)
Traditionally hosts an annual blessing in honor of St. Francis; watch their page for 2025 timing.
Counselor Tips for Attending
- Bring campers on a secure leash or in a carrier; arrive a few minutes early to settle.
- Pack water, treats, and a favorite toy for focus and comfort.
- Snap a photo after the blessing to remember the moment (and share the joy with your community!).
We Are the Lucky Ones
The Blessing of the Animals is a beautiful moment to honor our companions. But when we pause, it’s clear that our pets bless us every single day—with joy, love, and a reminder of what matters most.
If you’d like to make it a full celebration day, book an after-blessing play session or enrichment visit so your camper can cap the day with extra zoomies and snuggles.