Chilmark the ox, who weighs 2,360 pounds, was by far the biggest animal at the Celebration of Pets event on Wednesday at the Agricultural Hall, but he was outnumbered by the many dogs in attendance.
Chilmark the ox, who weighs 2,360 pounds, was by far the biggest animal at the Celebration of Pets event on Wednesday at the Agricultural Hall, but he was outnumbered by the many dogs in attendance.
Some dogs roamed the Agricultural Hall grounds, while others cooled off in a kiddie pool, worked with trainer Jeremy Jones or made new friends of different sizes.
Blessings were given by Rev. Cathlin Baker, Rev. Bill Eddy and Rabbi Caryn Broitman.
Blessings were given by Rev. Cathlin Baker, Rev. Bill Eddy and Rabbi Caryn Broitman.
The annual event hosted by the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard brings together pet owners from all over the Island to gather for a blessing. Rev. Cathlin Baker began the ceremony by inviting people to say the names of pets who had died, pets who are currently struggling, and any species that are endangered.
“Whether you are a big dog or a little dog... whether you’re a big cattle or a mini pony, you are all welcome here,” Reverend Baker said.
Reverend Baker was joined onstage by Rev. Bill Eddy and Rabbi Caryn Broitman. They all shared snippets about their pets and the importance of animals in humans’ lives.
Reverend Eddy told a story about his cat Merlin, who mischievously lets his two dogs out of the house, and Reverend Baker mentioned her dog Artichoke.
Remi the Guinea Pig and Jozie age 5.
Remi the Guinea Pig and Jozie age 5.
Rabbi Broitman talked about how animals can lift one’s spirits.
“Being here we really have an understanding of how we turn to animals for our therapy and strength, seeing animals in places like hospitals and where older people are, but actually, I just feel I need that right now,” Rabbi Broitman said to the crowd.
The first blessing was bestowed on a lizard named Georgia.
“Well, many blessings on you, Georgia,” Reverend Eddy said. “And many blessings on each and every creature here, and all the stories they tell us about our lives and all the wonderful things they do for us.”
Chilmark the Ox.
Chilmark the Ox.
Georgia was then joined by a guinea pig and a four-foot bull python named Loki. A few curious dogs were bold enough to investigate Loki while he was coiled up in his owner’s hands, and some human onlookers admired his glistening, newly shed skin.
As the event continued, children took turns going on hayrides led by Chilmark or sitting on the ox’s back.
Chilmark’s owner Cicilio Neto said he takes him for a ride once a week, sometimes heading to the beach. Mr. Neto explained that wherever they go, people recognize the ox before they recognize him.
Duncan Ross, the chairman of the board of directors for the animal shelter, was pleased with the event.
“It’s a wonderful thing to see so many people show up, especially the pets,” he said.
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