Grace United Methodist Church pastor Nance Hixon prays over his dog with his wife, Emily Hixon, during the blessing of the animals ceremony Sunday. Hixon said his church started doing the blessing of animals even before he arrived at the church five years go. Hixon prayed over 11 animals last Sunday, mainly dogs. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Jennie Guido kisses her beagle, Jo, during the blessing of the animals ceremony in 2016 in Natchez. (Democrat file photo)

Natchez-Adams County Humane Society shelter dog Dawn waits for her blessing. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)