A church in London hosted a carol service with a twist: pets were allowed to line the pews for a festive howl.
The service, called Carols for the Animals, was held at St. Botolph-sin-Bishopsgate Church in London on December 11.
More than a hundred people attended the joyous event along with 25 dogs, dressed in festive scarves, Christmas sweaters and antlers.
St Botolph’s is an animal-friendly church and Freddie, the rector’s black Labrador, is often on hand to welcome visitors and howl to the hymns.
So it made sense that all attendees were more than welcome to bring their four-legged friends to the carol concert, especially since all funds raised went to International Animal Rescue (IAR).
The multi-species howl was also attended by IAR patron Downton Abbey actor Peter Egan, while music for the carols was provided by musical ensemble The Massive Violins.
A mother and her daughter sing a hymn from the booklet titled Christmas Carols for the Animals while their puppy watches.
A terrier behaves as candles surround him at St Botolph’s Church in London.
Dogs sit on their owners’ laps while the carol service is performed.
Speaking about the moving service, IAR president Alan Knight said: “We are driven by a simple but powerful goal: to rescue, rehabilitate and protect animals in need while creating lasting change for wildlife and their habitats.”
Here, FEMAIL recaps the festive paws performance by taking a look at the cutest pooches in attendance.
Labradoodle Gets Scratched On Chin From Owner While Singing Christmas Carols
Alan Knight, president of International Animal Rescue, speaks at the carol service
A choir dressed in traditional costumes sings with the congregation.
A woman smiles as her dog poses for the camera.
A black Labrador can’t help but receive all the puppy love from those attending the service.
Representatives from International Animal Rescue sell merchandise to raise money for their charity.
Participants of the howling service pose for the camera with their owners