A representative from Mid-South Therapy Dogs will be at the national Civil Rights Museum today, showing just how much man’s best friend can help soldiers as they recover from post traumatic stress.

“Several of them (soldiers) reported that when they suddenly awaken at night due to a having a nightmare or hearing a noise in the house, feel relieved and calm when they realize their dog is perfectly calm and quiet,” said a museum representative in a written statement. “After all, if the nightmare were real, or if there were an intruder in the house, the dog would be barking and agitated.”

There’s a big celebration at the Memphis Farmers Market this Saturday, Oct. 30, but in addition to fresh vegetables you can also help give an animal a loving home.

Save 1 Pet is teaming up with Purina Pro Plan to help stray animals.

The Purnia Pro Plan Rally to Rescue runs from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Get your animals all gussied up in their Sunday best and take them to First United Methodist Church on Oct. 2 for the annual blessing of the pets.

Here’s some background information on the celebration from a press release:

"The Blessing of the Animals" service is held annually on or near October 4, the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi. Known for his devotion and love of all animals, Francis is quoted in his Canticle of the Creatures as saying, "All praise to you, O Lord, for all these brother and sister creatures."

The tradition of bestowing blessings on the pets and animals who bring us joy, companionship and unconditional love is carried out to honor the special bond between God, the animals and their caretakers.

The ceremony begins at 10 a.m.

For more information, click here.