TRENTON - The Episcopal Church of the Ridge, as part of their outreach program, was host to the Ninth Annual Blessing of the Animals at Our Saviour Episcopal Church in Trenton Sunday.

Between 60 and 70 animals and at least 75 people showed up for the event. All offertories will be given to All God’s Creatures Pet Rescue and Adoption in Edgefield County.

“We were pleased with the large crowd Sunday,” said Beth Byrd, president of All God’s Creatures Board of Directors. “Each year, it just keeps getting bigger. Some of our regulars were not there this year, but the new ones made up for it.”

The program included recitations and the singing of hymns, including a prayer of remembrance and thanksgiving for the pets that have died. The blessing of the animals by Archdeacon Fred Byrd followed the service, after which pets and owners were invited to enjoy refreshments.

A variety of pets were present, including two donkeys owned by Kim Walker.

Linda Hilliard, owner of “Hank,” a large black dog, had a story to tell.

“He (the dog) was picked up by a neighbor,” said Hilliard. “He hung out with the cows in the cow pasture and wouldn’t let anyone touch him. When the cows were sold, he showed up at our house.”

She said it took awhile, but he gradually became friendly toward them. Now, with a little tender loving care, he is going to pet therapy and obedience classes.

Many of the animals at the blessing were adopted from All God’s Creatures. The pet rescue and adoption center was founded around the year 2000 by Denise Holcomb of Trenton. Its mission is to rescue abused or abandoned pets, provide them with a comprehensive regimen of veterinary care and nurture them so that they may be permanently placed with responsible owners.

Prior to adoption and depending on age, all animals are spayed or neutered and are implanted with an identifying microchip. While in the sanctuary, human interaction is undertaken to socialize the animal in preparation for its new life. The sanctuary is dependent upon donations, fundraisers, grants and rescue/adoption contributions.

“The Blessing of the Animals is such a fun and meaningful occasion,” said Byrd. “I look forward to it each year.”