When Pets Attack: Spiritual Lessons Learned From Claws And Paws

“Attack!” This was what was apparently going through the mind of Sam the sugar glider as soon as the cage door opened. Not only did he have the audacity to relieve himself on me, but he was intent on sticking to me like glue. But wait, the plot thickens! My other baby sugar glider, Mia, decided she wanted in on the action. The next thing I know, I have two sugar gliders on me, and I’m trying to spin towards objects I think they might like to climb on; thinking if I can remove them from me that I will have a chance to go clean up. Ha! Was I wrong! These critters now take me for a human merry-go-round and the spinning becomes a game to them. Fortunately, they eventually become thirsty from all the spinning and excitement, then go to their cage for water, the door shuts, and the fiasco is over.

I’m not at all upset with my gliders for their behavior. Actually, it’s quite the contrary. They were being their unique selves and trying to have a good time. They had no understanding that I was uncomfortable from Sammy’s little mess, and hanging around on me was their special way of show affection. In addition, while spinning in circles it also got me thinking of several spiritual lessons we can learn from our pets.

Design

Genesis 1:25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.

When it comes to creation, we may be God’s crown jewel, but our Creator sure did one top notch job when he created animals. Not only are there so many different kinds, but each one has its own personality.

Courage

Psalm 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

Unless you own an alligator or a grizzly bear, it is likely that you are much larger than your pet, or at least somewhat larger. Yet, a lot of times even the smallest of pets show no fear when interacting with us. We too should be courageous like these small critters when dealing with life’s issues that seem to be bigger than us.

Trust

Psalm 37:5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

Trust is crucial in any relationship if you expect it to work. However, trust must be nurtured. When I brought Mia home, she used to try to bite me and run away. Now after a couple months of caring for her, she wants to jump on me and play games. She’ll also take a cracker, or other goodie, from my hand without thinking twice about it. We need to nurture trust in similar fashion in our relationships with others. We also need to be like Mia, and put out trust in that One who cares for us and is bigger than we are.

Love

Matt 22:39 … Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

Pets may not be able to read the Holy Bible, but they certainly understand what it means to love others as thyself. My sugar gliders would never have leaped on me if they didn’t love me. In return, they expect me to love them back by caring for them and showing them attention.

Conclusion

In closing, I just want to say that it’s important to understand your pets and know their personalities. All pets are different. Not all pets should be snuggled with and some need hugs and kisses every day. Understanding the ins-and-outs of your pets will help you better care for them and help them live healthier and happier lives. Thank you for reading and God bless.