A Catholic friar who lived in late 12th- and early 13th-century Italy, St. Francis was known for his concern for the poor and for his love for animals. He is the patron saint of animals and the environment, as well as the patron saint of Italy along with St. Catherine of Siena.
On his feast day, October 4, churches hold blessings for their parishioners' pets.
source: gmanetwork.com
