Temple offers first Blessing of Pets at Wick park

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Friday evening’s Shabbat observed by Congregation Rodef Sholom attracted some new faces.

They included Dickens, a Bedlington terrier; Precious, a Shih Tzu-Lhasa Apso mix; Bentley, a brindle boxer; and Buddy and Samantha, yellow Labrador retrievers.

They attended an outdoor service in Wick Park, located across from the temple at 1119 Elm St. Rabbi Franklin Muller said the congregation has a few outdoor sabbath services during the summer, but this pet blessing was the “first ever” for the temple.

The rabbi admitted he thought the religious occasion might turn into more like a “bark in the park,” but the pets were very well-behaved.

The blessing had an added element because of the social-action committee at Rodef Sholom. Angels for Animals’ mobile adoption unit was there with cats and kittens and one of the many dogs looking for a new forever home. The congregation also contributed donations of food, treats and money to the animal-rescue organization.

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