Two popular events, Bark in the Park and the Blessing of the Animals, will be held this weekend for dogs and their human friends.

Bark in the Park will get underway at Clark Park at 43rd and Chester on Saturday, Oct. 6, beginning at 2 p.m. (meet near the Bowl). There will be more than 25 contests, from the tallest dog to curliest tail to fastest runner, with chances to win doggie goodies. You can also meet the vet, Dr. David Littlejohn. The event is sponsored by Friends of Clark Park.

On Sunday, Oct. 7, dogs and other animals are welcome at St. Francis de Sales Prayer Garden at Farragut St. and Springfield Ave. (enter from the school yard). You can bring your little best friend to be blessed in honor of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the friend of all of God’s creatures. The event begins at Noon. Please keep your dogs on the leash.