The death of a pet can sadden us deeply. It’s a good time to turn to God. Offering our sadness to God can in itself be a sincere prayer that reaches heaven.
We can also address the Father with words from the Bible, for example by praying Psalm 104: "O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures ..."
Prayer to praise God for our pets
This prayer can give us words to direct to Him:
Lord God, I thank you for the gift of (pet's name).
With St. Francis, I pray:
Be praised, my Lord, through all your creatures.
“For you love all things that exist, and detest none of the things that you have made; for you would not have made anything if you had hated it” (Wis 11:24).
Every creature is the object of your tenderness, Father, and you give each being its place in the world. Even the fleeting life of the least of your beings is the object of your love, and in its brief time of existence, you enfold it with affection.
Our affection for (pet's name) thus reminds us of You.
Thank you for the time that we have had with them.
Thank you for making us the steward of their existence.
Thank you for the joy that they have brought us.
May all of creation always lead us to praise you and love you more. Amen.
