Columbia, CA…Bring your well-behaved pets (any species–large, small, unusual), on leashes or leads or in carriers, to th​e 7th annual Pet Blessing at the Church of the 49ers. This special event will be held Saturday, May 20, at 10 a.m. on the lawn of the church, located at Parrotts Ferry Road and Jackson Street in Columbia (11151 Jackson Street). Shade and seating and chilled water, and treats for the pets, are provided. The event is free and open to the entire community.​ Costumes are optional.

Each pet will be given a personalized blessing by Reverend Janet Russell and its human companion will receive a commemorative certificate​.​ During this “Yappy Hour,” a photographer will take photos of the pets as they are blessed, and pet portraits afterward (free for a digital image, or at cost for prints). The majority of pets brought​ to this event have been dogs, but Reverend Russell has also blessed a miniature horse, full-size horses, cats, a chicken, and even a lizard! For more information, call 532-6604.