NO BARKING or biting occurred at St Michael’s Church in Tintern after animals were blessed at the regular Sunday service.

Locals brought in dogs, rabbits, gerbils, and even a horse to be blessed by president of the Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals (ASWA), Bishop Dominic Walker.

The ASWA, a Christian organisation, raises awareness of real life animal suffering to help change people’s behaviour towards them.

Reverend Rosemary Dagger, from Llandogo, who led the service at the church, said the blessing was a success.

She said: “This is the first animal blessing that we have done.

“Animal welfare is always on the church calendar once a year and we cover that in our service.

“We think we’ll be doing this again next year because everyone enjoyed it.”

Even with the different varieties of animals, Rev Dagger said it was a peaceful ceremony.

She added: “I was worried at 10.15am when there was only a few animals in the church, but they all piled by half past.

“It was rather surprising as there was no barking or fighting or anything.”