SALT LAKE CITY — In what leaders are describing as an effort to “meet members where they are,” the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced a pilot program introducing pet nurseries in a limited number of wards.
The nurseries will allow members to check in dogs, cats, and other well-behaved household pets during Sunday meetings. Church officials say trained volunteers will provide toys, water, treats, and supervised playtime while owners attend classes distraction-free.
“We’re committed to making church accessible for every member of the family, including the four-legged ones,” a Church spokesperson said.
The pilot comes after years of increasing references to members affectionately referring to themselves as “dog moms” and “dog dads.” If successful, the program could expand to additional wards, though leaders emphasized that emotional support peacocks and unusually opinionated huskies would require bishop approval.
