St. Francis of Assisi would have loved the show of animal lovers at the latest Paws in the Pews event at Gibsons United Church. And perhaps the patron saint of animals would have been astonished at the turnout on a blustery Sunday - but no one who has lived on the Sunshine Coast for any length of time would be surprised.
Pooches on the Coast range in size and breed from the toy dogs such as Chihuahuas and Shih-tzus currently in vogue with the fashionistas such as Paris Hilton to Great Danes almost as tall as a man.
The tiny dogs are popular both for their manageable size and their likeness to stuffed animals. Such pretty canine companions are apt to turn up in fancy dress or wrapped in a blanket.
And such was the case for at least two of the teeny wonders taking part in Paws in the Pews at the Oct. 16 worship service. Other smallish dogs supply a much-needed friend for lonely people. Breeds such as Boston bull dogs, the aptly-named pugs and the many small terriers provide seniors on the Coast with an outlet for affection and exercise. These dogs are the perfect companions for people with small residences. They require less space to be comfortable and, important for folks on a fixed income, they don't cost as much to feed. It's not unusual this time of year to see sprightly seniors out for a walk with dapperly-dressed dogs in tow. More than one canine sports a bright red sweater or mackinaw, loving handcrafted by their proud owner.
Young families on the Coast tend to favour the mid- to large-size breeds. In addition to teaching children the meaning of unending loyalty and love, animals help youngsters learn responsibility.
For the many children at Sunday's service, it was a chance to show off a beloved member of the family. And several of the dogs in attendance were, as one young girl advised, a member of the family long before mom and dad ever contemplated an heir. In the girl's case, the dog is huge, with the fitting name of Timber. Roughly the size of a miniature pony, the dog dwarfed his young owners.
But a young family with a big dog makes sense. The kids can roughhouse to their hearts' content. And as a plus for the parents, many of these dogs provide protection to both the children and the home.
Some larger breeds are well known for their intelligence.
The standard poodle is among that select group of canines. And Millie the poodle who came to be blessed at the special service is a tribute to her breed.
Wildly friendly with a long memory, Millie's family, Bob and Jane Urquhart, laugh, "She's too darn smart."
Millie likes to go visiting. Once, when she got out of her yard, she ended up at a neighbour's house. Ever after, when the wanderlust overtook her, Millie went right back to the same house. After all, why not go where you're welcome?Many people on the Coast have dogs rescued from the SPCA.
What these animals lack in the way of a pedigree, they more than make up for in affection. One such fortunate pooch at the service has been the light of his little girl's eyes for the past two years. Sparkie, who looks to have at least some poodle in him, will provide many more years of companionship to the girl and her mother.
The good news is, with thousands of dog licences issued in Sechelt, Gibsons and the regional district this year alone, it's doubtful the pews will ever be empty.
