God created us in His image so that we could care for animals. Perhaps we show our resemblance to God best when we look after His creatures. Adam, the first man, spent his first day on Earth working alongside God to name the animals.
The Bible tells us that God formed all the wild animals and birds from the ground. He brought them to Adam to see what names he would choose for them. Whatever Adam named each creature became its name. Thus, Adam named all the livestock, birds, and wild animals.
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground’” (Gen. 1:26).
Proverbs 12:10 A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.
PS 36:6 Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep:
O Lord, thou preservest man and beast.
Jonah 4:11 And should not I spare Nineveh, that great city, wherein are more than sixscore thousand persons that cannot discern between their right hand and their left hand; and also much cattle?
PSALM 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
The Lord knows our needs and takes care of them. He provided food for Adam, Eve, and the animals even before creating them. Those who have pets or care for wildlife must offer regular support to the animals that depend on them. If we start feeding wild birds, we need to continue even during harsh weather, as they come to rely on us.
Our pets require clean water, adequate food, vet care and they look to us for these essentials. It’s easy to be charmed by a playful kitten or an affectionate puppy. However, it’s important to think about the long-term responsibility of having a pet before bringing one home or starting to feed birds. Additionally, we should not rely on young children to take care of a pet, as they may not be ready for that responsibility.
Our collection of pets has included our beloved cocker spaniel, Gabriel (Gabby), fish in our pond, and care for wildlife in our large backyard. Each one has shown a distinct personality. Animals do possess souls. They express emotions such as love, sadness, happiness, jealousy, fear, pride, and playfulness. They have sulked when feeling excluded and have joyfully played when included.
We show our animals care by recognizing their emotional needs. Their souls seek play, love, comfort, and attention just like ours do. Some animals, such as our brilliant Gabby also needed exercise and mental challenges which he conquered no matter how difficult.
Jesus instructed us to pray for guidance, saying, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one” (Matt. 6:13). This prayer highlights our need for His support as we navigate life. Similarly, our pets require protection and guidance.
4 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Certain human foods, such as dark chocolate and grapes, can be harmful to dogs and cats. It is our responsibility to ensure they do not have access to these dangerous items. Additionally, some pets need regular grooming to prevent their fur from matting or obstructing their sight. Pets living near busy roads should have a physical or invisible fence to keep them safe.
5 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
The presence of the Lord provides comfort during times of fear. Similarly, our actions and guidance can reassure our pets. They feel safe knowing we are in control.
One of our family’s dogs was scared of thunderstorms, while another was afraid of the loud vacuum cleaner when he was a puppy (that was Teddy – a gentle, giant Golden Retriever). We noticed his anxiety and offered comfort by being close to him.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Just as a good shepherd cares for the wounds, bites, and sickness of his sheep, we must look after our animals when they are in distress. Gabby had the best of care of anything and everything that was needed and we know how privileged we were to have the means. So many go into shelters etc because folks have not considered the cost of the care needed. Love is important but to understand this is also love and one should not be selfish to adopt or buy and not be able to care for them especially as they grow older or become ill.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever
When we care for our pets, they return the favor in unique ways. Each animal reveals different parts of our character.
Our pets are truly blessings. They have taught me to trust God more, mirroring how they trust me. Caring for them has deepened my understanding of how God cares for me. Seeing them happy brings us joy, reminding us that we also delight God when we embrace all He offers. When they show their appreciation for our care, we feel compelled to express gratitude to God.
How do we show love to our pets? Observe how our heavenly Father looks after us, and pass that kindness along.