Animal lovers have taken their pets to church in the Philippines to have them blessed by their parish priest.

More than a hundred people turned up at the Malate church in Manila for the annual event held near the feast day of St Francis of Assisi.

As well as many dogs, worshippers also brought along snakes, geckos and even tarantulas.

Luckily Father Michael Martin has no issue praying for any animals.

"We give thanks for the variety of all creation and it's a moment of reflection that somehow we will imitate St. Francis who highlighted the interconnectedness and the beauty of all creation."