We should pray for our animals, not only because we love them, but also because they are one of God’s beloved creatures. God made everything on earth, including the animals we hold so dear to our hearts. The Bible tells us that the sign of a righteous man is that he takes care of his animals. We are told this in Proverbs 12:10, which says “The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.” We should lift up our pets and animal friends who are under our care, not only in their times of struggle, but also when they’re ok because they should be lifted up at all times. Remember, anything that concerns us, concerns the Lord. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite animal prayers. If you want to protect and bless the animals that mean so much to you, say these prayers silently or out loud to lift up your favorite animal friends today.
A Prayer for All Animals Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals, especially for animals who are suffering; for animals that are overworked, underfed and cruelly treated; for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars; for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put death. We entreat for them all Thy mercy and pity, and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals, and so to share the blessings of the merciful.
A Prayer for the Blessing of An Animal
Heavenly Father, how great the variety of living things, You have put at our disposal! You told our first parents: "I give you all the animals of the land." Some can be used as food, or for labor or transportation, but also for our companionship and recreation.
Bless this animal. May it carry out the function it has been given and may it aid us to think of You its Creator and give praise and thanks to You forever. We ask this in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen.
A Franciscan Prayer for Our Pets
In Your infinite wisdom, Lord God, when You created the Universe You blessed us with all living creatures. We especially thank You for giving us our pets who are our friends and who bring us so much joy in life. Their presence very often helps us get through trying times. Kindly bless my pet. May my pet continue giving me joy and remind me of Your power. May we realize that as our pets trust us to take care of them, so we should trust You to take care of us, and in taking care of them we share in Your love for all Your creatures. Enlighten our minds to preserve all endangered species so that we may continue to appreciate all Your creatures. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
A Dog’s Bedtime Prayer
Now I lay me down to sleep, The king-size bed is soft and deep. I sleep right in the center groove my human being can hardly move! I’ve trapped her legs, she’s tucked in tight And here is where I pass the night, no one disturbs me or dares intrude. ‘Till morning comes and I want food! I sneak up slowly to begin my nibbles on my human’s chin. She wakes up slowly and smiles and shouts, “You darling beast! Just cut it out!” But morning’s here and it’s time to play, I always seem to get my way. So thank you Lord for giving me This human person that I see. The one who hugs and holds me tight and shares her bed with me at night!
A Prayer for Sick Pets
Heavenly Father, Please help us in our time of need, You have made us stewards of (name of pet). If it is Your will, please restore him (her) to health and strength. I pray too for other animals in need. May they be treated with the care and respect deserving of all Your creation. Blessed are You Lord God, and holy is Your name forever and ever. Amen.
A Prayer for Pets in Transition, Who May Be Close to Death
"Loving God, our beloved pet and companion, (Pet's name) is on his/her final journey. We will miss (Pet's name) dearly. We thank you for the gift that he/she has been to us. Give us hope that, in your great kindness, you may restore (Pet's name) in your heavenly Kingdom according to your wisdom, which goes beyond our human understanding."
A Prayer in Memory of a Pet
Almighty God, I was fortunate to receive the gift of (pet name) from You Now that he (she) has left this life, please help me cope with my loss with strength and courage. I know that my beloved companion no longer suffers, and will live on in many fond memories. May they be treated with the care and respect as he (she) has enriched my life I pray that I may enrich the lives of others. Amen.
A Prayer for the Death of a Wild Animal
Heavenly Father, who makes the beasts of the wild move in beauty and show for the glory of Your name. We grieve the death of this creature, in whose living and dying the power of Your spirit was made manifest. We reverence the loss of that which was never ours to claim but only to behold with wonder; through Jesus Christ our Redeemer, who lives and reigns with Tou and the Holy Spirit, on God, now and forever. Amen.
