The Bible does not directly address the topic of pets, since pet keeping was not a common practice in ancient Israelite culture. However, there are some principles and passages in Scripture that can give us insight into how God views animals and how we should treat them.
God cares about the well-being of animals
The Bible makes it clear that animals matter to God. He created them and said his creation was “very good” (Genesis 1:25). God cares for the birds of the air and the beasts of the field (Matthew 6:26, Psalm 104:14-18). Several verses forbid cruelty to animals (Proverbs 12:10, Deuteronomy 25:4). The Sabbath commandment calls for animals to rest along with humans (Exodus 20:10). These and other passages indicate that animals have value in God’s eyes.
Animals belong to God, not humans
While God gave humans dominion over animals (Genesis 1:26), Scripture is clear that animals belong to God, not humans (Psalm 50:10-11, Psalm 104:27-28). We are stewards, not owners, and should treat animals accordingly. Proverbs 12:10 says “Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast.” Our use of animals should align with God’s purposes.
Jesus cares for the needs of animals
Jesus demonstrated God’s compassion for animals in several instances during his ministry. He allowed his disciples to have donkeys for transportation (Luke 19:29-35). He pointed to God’s care for the birds as an example for us to trust God to provide (Matthew 6:26). And he healed and cast out demons from animals on multiple occasions – the pigs in the region of the Gerasenes (Mark 5:1-20), the fish with the coin in its mouth (Matthew 17:24-27), and the donkey that belonged to Balaam (2 Peter 2:15-16).
Keeping pets could be a form of godly dominion
While the Bible does not directly command keeping pets, doing so could be considered a form of exercising good dominion over animals. Providing for an animal’s basic needs – such as food, water, veterinary care – prevents suffering and is consistent with Scriptural principles on stewardship. Developing positive relationships with pets can develop godly traits like responsibility and compassion in humans. As long as pets are not replacing devotion to God (Exodus 20:3), caring for them can be a way to honor Him.
Treating pets humanely reflects God’s character
Since animals belong to God, cruelty towards them offends Him (Proverbs 12:10). On the other hand, showing compassion to pets provides a glimpse of God’s kindness and care. Jesus said God sends rain on the righteous and unrighteous (Matthew 5:45) – likewise, we can reflect His goodness by generously caring for all life. Humane treatment of pets, whether through adoption, medical treatment, play, or responsible training aligns with Biblical values like grace, patience and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Pets can help people fulfill their purpose
The meaningful relationships and joy pets bring their owners can motivate us to serve God and live purposefully. Ecclesiastes talks about enjoying life’s simple pleasures as gifts from God (Ecclesiastes 3:12-13). Pets facilitate community and connection, addressing the human need for companionship (Genesis 2:18). Service animals enable people to overcome disabilities and glorify God with their lives. In these and others way, pets can contribute to humans fulfilling their purpose to love God and serve others (Mark 12:30-31).
Balance is needed in our care of pets
While caring for pets is generally good, balance is needed. Spending exorbitant amounts of money on pets while neglecting humanitarian needs can become misplaced priorities (Luke 12:33, 1 John 3:17). Obsessively pampering pets over meeting family responsibilities goes against the need to put God first (Exodus 20:3). As with any good thing, moderation and self-control should be exercised (1 Corinthians 6:12, Proverbs 25:28). Pets can enhance our lives if kept in proper perspective.
We will interact with animals in the afterlife
The Bible hints that animals will be present during Christ’s millennial kingdom and the new creation (Isaiah 11:6, Isaiah 65:25). While the afterlife focus is on relationship with God, His restoration seems to encompass all His creation. The Apostle Paul writes that the whole creation eagerly awaits being set free and brought into God’s glory (Romans 8:19-22). This suggests our pets may be part of our eternal state. No matter what, we can trust God’s plans are good and righteous (Revelation 21:3-4).
Key Biblical Principles About Pets
In summary, here are some key Biblical principles that apply to pet ownership:
- Animals have value to God as part of His creation.
- God cares about the wellbeing of animals.
- Humans are called to exercise responsible dominion and stewardship over animals.
- Cruelty towards animals offends God.
- Jesus demonstrated compassion towards animals during His ministry.
- Caring for pets can develop godliness and fulfill our human need for companionship.
- Pets must not displace our devotion to God.
- Balance is needed – pets can become an idol or obsession that overwhelms responsibilities.
- The Bible hints faithful pets may be part of the afterlife with transformed relationships.
While Scripture does not provide definitive “do’s and don’ts” about pets, applying Biblical principles like stewardship and compassion should guide us in making wise, God-honoring decisions about pet ownership. The Bible does not forbid having pets, but cautions against elevating animals above our devotion to God and service to fellow humans. Within this framework, caring for pets can be a way to practice biblical dominion and values. Most importantly, we should remember that animals belong ultimately to God, not us, and He cares deeply about them.