The Humane Society of Pike County will join millions of animal lovers around the country today to celebrate “Be Kind to Animals Week,” May 1through 7. The American Humane Association will celebrate its long history of rescuing animals from cruelty and disasters. And, the local humane society will celebrate by Blessing the Animals at 10 a.m. on the square in downtown Troy with a Pet Parade to follow.

Donna Brockmann, Humane Society of Pike County president, said pet owners are invited to bring their pets to be blessed at the special ceremony.

“Pets of all kinds are welcome but we do want to encourage owners to only bring animals that are accustomed to being around people and other animals,” Brockmann said. “We want the blessing to be a pleasant experience for the animals and a meaningful one for their owners.”

Brockmann said all animals should be on a lease, in a carry cage or contained in some way.

The Rev. Earnest Green will bless the animals collectively. Then, pets and owners will be invited to participate in the pet parade, which will honor all pets and encourage everyone to be kind to animals, not just the week of May 1-7 but also all day everyday, Brockmann said.

The Blessing of the Animals and the Pet Parade will be an hour or less.