Pope Francis greets "dog athletes" at General Audience

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis is a famous sports fan, and he often meets athletes during his weekly General Audience. On 5 October, he met a different kind of athlete: Those with four legs.

The Holy Father met with members of the “Federazione Italiana Sport Cinofili,” which is the Italian Federation dealing with “dog sports,” which test a canine’s agility and obedience.

Pope Francis gave his blessing to the animals, then he petted many of the dogs – and shook the hands of their “coaches” – and gave them a special mention during his remarks in St. Peter’s Square.