October is hosts to ‘Blessing of the Animals,’ one of the Bay Area’s greatest traditions and performed in the ways of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and the environment. I am not religious but I look forward to this event every year. Children line up, excited to have their beloved pets blessed with a special prayer to honor their loyal companions who love us unconditionally. It's a very special experience and there are many places across Marin to line up and have your pet blessed:

Sunday, October 6

• Mount Tam United Methodist Church, 11:30am, 410 Sycamore Ave, Mill Valley

• Church of Our Saviour, 10 Old Mill St, Mill Valley

• St. Stephen’s Church, 3 Bay View Avenue, Belvedere

• The Feast of St. Francis and Blessing of the Animals, Grace Cathedral, San Francisco

• St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Santa Rosa

• Feast of St. Francis and Blessing of the Beasts, St. James Episcopal Church, San Francisco

• St. Columba’s Church, Inverness

Here are some pawsatively fun family and pet friendly events worth a mention:

• DOGtoberfest, October 21, 5:30-9pm, It’s an evening filled with live music, great beer and food, and of course, dogs! The Lagunitas Brewing Company, Petaluma.

• K-9 Heroes: Bark at the Park, October 12, 11am-1pm, Duboce Park.

• Woodland Pet Food Halloween DOGtoberfest & Costume Contest, October 26, 3-6pm, Strawberry Village, Mill Valley.

• Howl’O’Ween Dog Costume Contest, 6:30pm on October 31, Sausalito