Heaven Scent
“It was a great opportunity to come together and celebrate both them and St Francis of Assisi”
A team of working dogs was today blessed at the Medical Detection Dogs training centre in Milton Keynes to celebrate the life and legacy of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
A number of Bio Detection Dogs, Medical Alert Assistance Dogs and dogs in training received a special blessing from Reverend Dr Stephen J. O’Connor of Winslow Benefice, Sister Sophie and Brother Sam, during an event held in the memorial garden at the charity’s training centre.
The event took place on the anniversary of St Francis's death and brought together staff, volunteers, supporters and super sniffers in a moment of reflection and gratitude for the remarkable contribution the dogs make to people's lives every day.
During the ceremony, the reverend offered prayers and blessings for the dogs, recognising the comfort, companionship and life-changing support they provide. The blessing also acknowledged the commitment of the trainers, handlers puppy socialisers and fosterers who help prepare the dogs for their important roles.
Dogs at the blessing included cancer detection dogs Willow and Dotty, Medical Alert Assistance Dogs in training, Hope and Rafiki and Demo dog, Eliza.
Rob Harris, Bio Detection Department Manager at Medical Detection Dogs, said: "Our dogs help save and transform lives every day with their extraordinary abilities.
“It was a great opportunity to come together and celebrate both them and St Francis of Assisi.”