Sacred Heart hosts blessing of the animals Students from Sacred Heart Academy’s preschool through eighth grade classes paraded with their pets to Sacred Heart Church on Oct. 4 — a procession made up of everything from dogs and cats to spiders and rats. The parade was part of a blessing of the animals event, a festivity celebrating St. Francis of Assisi and his love for all of God’s creatures. This annual event takes place in October at the church, and all community members and their pets are welcome to participate, regardless of affiliation. For more information, call (619) 222-7252, or visit www.s-h-a.org. Cancer Society thrift shop slates discount event The American Cancer Society (ACS) Point Loma Discovery Shop, located at 3609 Suite C on Midway Drive, is offering 25 percent off all purchases for the remainder of October in exchange for a $25 donation to the ACS. Thrift shop organizers said the event “is a great way to be of service and to save money on items for your house, closet and jewelry box.” The Point Loma Discovery Shop’s store hours are Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, call (619) 224-4336.