Should Christians Have Pets?

A brief introduction to a theology of pets.

Erin and I recently welcomed a new dog into our family. Zoe, a 13-year-old miniature dachshund, previously belonged to Erin's grandmother, who sadly passed away. Afterward, Zoe lived with Erin's brother in Chicago for the last 10 years. As she aged, the harsh Chicago winters became too much for her, leading her to retire to Bristol, FL. Erin and I both love dogs but understand they require a lot of care and attention. Zoe's place in our home reminded me of a question I've pondered for a while: What does the Bible say about pets?

"In Genesis 1:26, mankind was made in the image of God. Genesis 1:28 states that God gave them dominion. Genesis 2:19 echoes this, showing that God created animals to be named by man. In the ancient world, naming something exercised authority over it. We didn't name Zoe, but the name fits her well. In Greek, 'zoe' (ζωή) means 'life.' Despite her quiet, small, and unassuming nature, you can see life in her eyes, even as they dim with age. All life holds precious value in God's sight. He created life and gives it value.

Common Belief

The current trend places pets on the same level as children, with phrases like "Dog Mom" gaining popularity. I even saw multiple people wishing others a happy Mother’s Day this year to "dog moms." Is this the correct attitude? Should we ignore pets? Should Christians have pets?

God created animals good

He blessed them and called them good. Animals have a spirit or soul, but it differs from that of humanity. God personally crafted humanity and created us in His image. Animals have life connected to humanity's dominion, not intended to reflect God's nature as humanity does.

Personal experiences show that not all animals remain good. Yesterday, while grilling, I tried to shut the backyard gate and didn't see the wasp nest embedded in it. A wasp got into my shirt sleeve and stung me three times before I got it out. It took everything in me not to scream out. Thankfully, no one saw me hopping around, hitting myself. Clearly, this wasn't good. However, animals, like humanity, suffered harm and corruption from the fall. This corruption appears most in animals outside humanity's dominion. Wild animals, intended to serve mankind, have turned against us because of our sin.

God gave mankind dominion over animals

Animals thrive when fully submitted to humanity. Responsible and honorable pet ownership becomes a responsibility for able Christians. This doesn't mean we must care for every animal, but we should work to ensure their well-being.

When Erin and I first married, I worked as a pastor near our college. She saw a mistreated dog on campus and heard it would go to a kill shelter unless someone took it. I hesitated because dogs require a lot of responsibility. Erin took me to lunch and passionately argued that God commanded us to take dominion and help the poor animal. I caved after looking at the dog, thinking we would only have her for a few years. We asked my mother-in-law what to name her, and she suggested "Temporary," so we went with "Tempy." She lived for 7 more years before tragically getting run over.

Animals excel when serving mankind

In the special needs community, I’ve seen incredible bonds between pets and their companions. One of my child's speech therapists has a service animal for her daughter, a huge black Newfoundland named Lottie. This dog looks more like a bear or a horse than a dog. If I encountered her at night without context, I’d run faster than my body could handle. Yet, when working, she remains sweet, obedient, and kind, bringing comfort and calm to any room. This exemplifies the gift animals bring when they function as God intended.

Although she is not a service animal Zoe brings life and joy to my family and children; she is giving life to our home. This is true of any animal serving its God-given function. Ultimately I would conclude that we as Christians must exercise responsible pet ownership and in doing so we will be blessed by God.