Photos from the Pet Blessing Service

The Pet Blessing Service, a partnership between the Edinburgh Interfaith Association, Greyfriars Kirk and the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home (EDCH), was held for the third time on Sunday.

The ceremony included representatives from all faiths and none, and was used as a fundraiser for EDCH. This service follows the ancient tradition when farmers and others would give thanks for their beasts of burden following the autumn harvest.

This service at Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh’s Old Town welcomed Edinburgh locals with their pets.

Many faiths throughout the world have rituals involving animals and all will be welcome at this short ceremony to celebrate animals. In 2023, the service included contributions from Christians, Jews, Sikhs, Buddihsts, Baha’Is, Humanists and others. The service was followed by an animal parade through Greyfriars Kirkyard and concluded with a laying of a wreath at the Greyfriars Bobby headstone.

Former Lord Provost William Chambers both issued Greyfriars Bobby a dog licence to protect him after his beloved owner died and co-founded EDCH, forming a unique link between the Kirk and the Home. A collection, and donations of pet food, were accepted during the service and all proceeds will benefit the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home who have been supporting pets and their owners for more than 140 years in the Edinburgh region.

Reverend Dr Urzula Glienecke, a trustee of the Edinburgh Interfaith Association said: “We are delighted to co – sponsor this annual civic celebration to show our gratitude and love for the furry friends across our city. Thanks to the support from Greyfriars Kirk and the Edinburgh Dog anCat Home, this annual commemoration has grown each year, going from strength to strength.”

Gillian Couper, candidate for ministry and Elder of Greyfriars Kirk said: “We are delighted to host this event each year which brings together all creatures, great and small (that we are able!), to give gratitude for their pets and the wonders of the animal world. Given the Kirk’s historic link to Greyfriar’s Bobby, it offers a unique location for this annual occasion.”

Pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh – Skye Terrier Teàrlag – Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Skye Terrier Pasha at the pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Spencer the Maltese at the pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Forbes and Effie with owners Kim and Colin at the pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Christine and Fay Fife with Harris at the pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Sheila and Iain with Gracie (3) at the pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Allison Stuckless and Caroline Sexton with Odin and Beau at the pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Deputy Lord Provost Lezley Marion Camerson at the Pet Blessing Service at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Skye Terriers at the Pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Rev Dr Urzula Glienecke and Gillian Couper
Pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025

Rev Dr Urzula Glienecke ,Deputy Lord Provost Lezley Cameron and Gillian Couper
Pet blessing at Greyfriars Kirk Edinburgh Picture Alan Simpson 5/10/2025