Animal festivals held in Trieste and Piazzola sul Brenta

Various animal-themed celebrations held in honor of Saint Francis took place across Italy. In Trieste, the Animal Festival in Piazza Verdi featured demonstrations by canine units and a public blessing of animals.

A highlight of the Trieste event was a commendation for Lamù, a search-and-rescue dog from the National Fire Corps. Lamù was honored upon retirement for years of service, which included participating in rescue efforts following the earthquake in Turkey.

In Piazzola sul Brenta, the San Francesco Presina shelter hosted festivities including a Mass and an animal blessing. The event, attended by local officials and mayors from the Alta Padovana region, included demonstrations of canine skills and the inauguration of the ‘Rainbow Bridge’ to memorialize dogs that passed away at the facility. The shelter has hosted over 6,000 dogs since its founding, maintaining a 91% adoption rate.