We believe that pets are family, and, if we pay attention, they can teach us a great deal about God’s love. Pets are also a part of God’s creation and we are called to be good stewards of all that God has created. With this in mind, we have developed an encompassing pet ministry that is designed to meet the needs of pets, of pet lovers and of our community. The Community Pet Ministry offers support as well as a variety of opportunities to participate in activities with and for our pets. Keep reading to learn more!
Exciting News from Rev. Betsy and Gayle Fiser!
We are thrilled to share that Rev. Betsy and Gayle Fiser have a brand-new book coming September 1:
New Tricks: How Pet Ministry Can Transform Faith Communities and Change Lives.
New Tricks is a groundbreaking guide to bringing pet ministry into your faith community and demonstrating how animals can change lives. Filled with heart-warming stories of how animals of all kinds minister to us and how we, in turn, can serve them and their families, this book expands upon traditional ideas of pet ministry as an annual “animal blessing” to a more comprehensive approach involving educational programs, animal advocacy, and grief work for bereaved pet parents. New Tricks delivers an inspiring new vision for how we honor and care for all of God’s creatures in our lives.
📖 Pre-order your copy today: upperroombooks.com/book/new-tricks
New Tricks will also be available at your favorite local, independent bookstore or from Amazon.
Therapy Dog Training
Provided as a gift to the community
Prepares dogs to successfully complete an official therapy dog test and obtain certification
Led by experienced dog trainer Brenda Guillet
Handlers must be at least 12 years of age
Certified dogs are invited to greet guests at worship as well as participate in church special events and activities
Interested in getting involved? Fill out this form!
Annual Community Events
Blessing of the Animals is held in early October to celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi. All animals (on leashes, crates, or carrier) receive a blessing in an outdoor setting.
World Pet Memorial Day is observed on the second Tuesday in June each year as a time to remember and honor the pets who have touched our lives.
Service Projects Involving Pets
Assisting with pet adoption and microchipping events
Collecting pet food and supplies for animal shelters
Supporting organizations that provide low-cost pet vaccinations
Pet-Focused Educational Sessions
Presentations provided by veterinarians and pet experts.
Topics include How to Prevent Separation Anxiety, Taking the Perfect Pet Photo, Early Emergency Intervention, Selecting the Best Pet, and more!
As part of community engagement, our Pet Ministry partners with Out West Veterinary Urgent Care by providing Pet Prayer Blankets for those who have experienced a tragic and unexpected lost while Out West assists with special microchipping events and educational programs.
Projects Under Development
Emergency Vet Fund
Temporary pet fosters when pet parents are in hospital/rehab
Animal Advocacy
Want to learn more about our Pet Ministry?
Contact Gayle Fiser, our Pet Ministry Director.
Gayle Fiser
Brenda Guillet
