We say so many prayers—we write them, speak them, whisper them. Have you ever said a prayer for your dog? Animals can be important to people’s physical and mental health. Perhaps a prayer for your dog can lead to spiritual growth and deeper faith.
What Does the Bible Say about Pets?
The Old Testament book of Genesis shares God’s timeline of creation. On the first day, God created the universe. He separated the light from the darkness. On the second day, God made a dome to divide the water and named it the sky. On that day, God also commanded that the earth produce plants.
“Then God commanded, “Let the water below the sky come together in one place, so that the land will appear” —and it was done. He named the land “Earth,” and the water which had come together he named “Sea.” And God was pleased with what he saw.” (Genesis 1:9-10 NIV)
Next, He created the sun to rule over the day and the moon to rule over the night. He also made the stars. God filled the water with different living beings and filled the air with birds.
God continued by creating different kinds of animals.
“Then God commanded, “Let the earth produce all kinds of animal life: domestic and wild, large and small” —-and it was done. So God made them all, and he was pleased with what he saw.” (Genesis 1:24-25 NIV)
God created humans and gave them power over animals. He put the humans in charge of the fish, the birds, and all the animals.
Then, on the seventh day, God rested. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) say that no person or animal should do any work on the Sabbath day. Therefore, animals should be given time to rest, too.
God was pleased and loved what He created. Therefore, we are called to love His creations, too. Providing food, shelter, companionship, compassion, love, and care are a few ways to show God’s love to pets and humans.
Every action God took in creation allows us to sustain life and further His kingdom.
“For every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills. I know every bird in the mountains, and the insects in the fields are mine.” (Psalm 50:10-11 NIV)
Pets can be a blessed part of life. Scripture gives the reminder that everything belongs to God.
The Uniqueness of Dogs
Dogs, cats, goldfish, lizards, rabbits, hermit crabs, and other animals are beloved parts of families in many homes today. God created each with unique qualities and distinct personalities, from the little Chihuahua dog to the large Great Dane.
Some dogs have high energy and enjoy running all day. Others prefer to snuggle and rest on a comfortable blanket or bed. Some dogs can be trained to perform tricks, while others prefer to dig holes in the backyard.
Dogs have distinct features such as long or short tails, ears that stand tall, or ears that are floppy. The long-haired dachshund has soft hair. Others, like the corgi, have short fur.
You may have heard someone comment that dogs know when a storm is coming or their owners feel sad. The connection to us can bring peace and calm during stressful times.
Dogs have important roles in many situations. Search and rescue dog teams, such as the K-9 unit, work with professionals to find human remains, a trace or scent of a missing person, illegal drugs, and other vital assistance needed.
Companion or therapy dogs accompany people who may have medical conditions. These specially trained animals can alert the owner of an upcoming medical situation. Hospitals and nursing homes often encourage therapy dogs to help ease anxious patients.
Service dogs are specially trained to aid people with specific issues, such as blindness or a physical disability.
10 Ways to Care for Dogs
At a young age, children can learn how to care for pets. Relationships between humans and animals can provide stability through trust, encourage love, and instill compassion.
1. Provide food and water for your dog every day.
2. Show love and care through touch, if possible.
3. Greet your dog with a calm voice.
4. Reward your dog for good behavior.
5. Provide exercise for your dog. Walking outside is good for humans and dogs.
6. Keep up to date with vaccinations and medications for your dog.
7. Give your dog plenty of time to rest.
8. Remember that dogs have feelings and sometimes need extra attention.
9. Help your dog be safe in your neighborhood. Professional training may be needed.
10. Pray for your dog.
10 Prayers for Your Dog
These prayers cover many situations you may find yourself, from in with your dog.
1. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for creating dogs. Amen.
2. Lord, thank You for the energy of my puppy and the laughter it brings to the world. Help me to show love to all animals. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
3. God, please give me patience with my dog. Provide me with compassion and forgiveness when my dog doesn’t obey. Help me to remember that I don’t always follow the rules. Thank You. Amen.
4. Dear Lord, may I always remember that my dog needs love, compassion, and care. Lead me to show unconditional love to my dog. Amen.
5. Father, my dog is sick, and I am afraid. Thank You for the reminder to place my trust in You. Thank You for loving my dog and for loving me. Amen.
6. Lord, please cover my dog and all dogs with your hedge of protection. Keep dogs safe from harm and danger. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
7. Dear God, please be with my dog and take away any loneliness my dog feels when I am not close by. Comfort the animal and bring peace to its body. Amen.
8. Heavenly Father, my dog is close to dying. Please show me the steps to give comfort and care during this transitional time. Help me as I grieve the loss of my dear companion. Amen.
9. Father, thank You for the safety my dog provides when I am alone. Snuggling next to my dear pet brings comfort and security. Amen.
10. Lord, Your creations are amazing and more glorious than we can comprehend. Thank you for my dog and the time we share. Amen.
The Blessing of the Animals
Some congregations have a special service once a year for the “blessing of the animals.” People are encouraged to bring their dogs and other animals to be blessed on that special day. Christians celebrate the Feast of Saint Francis with blessings and prayers for God’s creations.
Adopting a Dog
As a young girl, my father took me to the local animal shelter to look for a dog to adopt. Entering the building and hearing the barks and cries of the dogs made me sad. My father and I walked from cage to cage, hoping to find the right pet for our home.
After seeing numerous dogs, we found one for our family. Her name was Susie. A black, long-haired dachshund with a sweet personality. We adopted her, and she was a member of our family for many years. When she passed away, our hearts were broken. My family will always remember the love and care Susie gave us.
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Sviatlana Barchan
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
This article is part of our prayer resources meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
Prayers for Healing
Morning Prayers
Prayers for Family
Prayers for Surgery
Prayers for Strength
Night Prayers Before Bed
Prayers for Protection
The Lord's Prayer: Our Father
