A blessing of the animals will be held by Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church, 1601 Louisiana St., Little Rock, at 2 p.m. Sunday (Oct. 7), followed by another blessing by Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church from 4-5 p.m. at Little Rock's War Memorial Park at the corner of Fair Park Boulevard and West Markham Street.

Admission to both events is free.

The Quapaw Quarter blessing asks that you bring your pet on a leash, in a carrier or held in your arms. If your critter doesn't like crowds, blessings can be bestowed via photographs. Each animal will receive a card acknowledging the blessing. 

Donations to the church's Pet Food Ministry, which provides dog and cat food for the church's food pantry, are welcome. For more information call (501) 680-3436.

A lighthearted worship service with singing, clapping, barking and meowing will open the War Memorial event. Each pet will then receive a personal blessing and prayer. Following the service there will be a pet- and people-friendly reception. Donations that will benefit the Little Rock Zoo -- which will provide a mystery guest animal for the event -- are welcome. For more information call (501) 664-3600.