Dresden’s Timothy and Kristen Cowing and daughter Abigail, 13, have had their Brittany spaniel-hound Sandy blessed at St. Philip’s Church in Wiscasset, but never with her there, until Sunday morning. Before, it was via a photograph of her. “I’m hoping she behaves,” Kristen said, smiling as she patted her before the service that would include the annual blessing of the animals.

The Hodge Street church’s deacon Marcia Richardson said she loves the blessing every year because she loves animals. Her and husband and Westport Island Selectman George Richardson’s golden retrievers Frank and Paprika waited in an office until the blessings were about to be performed, near the service’s end. Then she retrieved them while priest Barbara Barth led a prayer.

Richardson returned, the goldens walked straight over to Sandy and the three greeted by nose for several seconds.

After blessings, all the dogs got visits from vestry member and head of the altar guild Suzanne Rankin and other attendees.

Earlier in the service, Richardson announced First Congregational Church of Wiscasset Pastor Josh Fitterling’s suggestion both churches time their animal blessings together next year, on the lawn where Route 1 travelers can see.

“That sounds like a great idea,” Rankin said.