Sometimes we want non-human company, but we may be wary about just picking the first animal that comes to us.
To find a pet, first spend time thinking about what you want in a pet. Journal about what it would be like—how it would feel to touch, what its personality would be like.
Look through magazines and cut out words and images that describe your perfect animal companion; make a collage of your journaling, the images, and words.
Place the collage in the center of your sacred space.
- Cast a circle and center yourself.
- Breathe deeply and close your eyes.
- Visualize your perfect pet living and interacting with you. Welcome it and see yourself going through an ordinary with its presence in your life.
- When you feel it is time, thank the animal for coming to you, and open the circle.
Place the collage in a place where you will see it daily. Every time you do, thank the animal for making its way to you.
Be open to the many ways it is possible for your pet to arrive. Talk to people about it, listen when others talk about the animals in their lives. You'll probably get the urge to visit an animal shelter, or ring up your veterinary friend, follow through on that urge.
Important Note: Pets are living creatures and as important to Deity as any other living creature. Once you feel certain of the pet you desire, please consider the following aspects:
- Lifestyle fit - is the pet you want an active or laidback one? Is your living place suitable for the pet you want? Do you travel a lot? Away at work for long hours? Is everyone in your household on board with having a pet? Who will be responsible for the pet?
- Costs - pets come with financial obligations: spaying/neutering, microchipping, food, toys, regular vet visits for health maintenance, emergency vet visits, pet insurance, training, kenneling, grooming, etc.,
- Training - most pets require some measure of training in order to behave as you would like; are you ready to commit to the time and effort that takes?
- Commitment - a pet is a living, feeling being who will depend on you for everything. Do you have time to play with them? Can you offer them a reliable routine? Will you stick by them even when it's hard? If you have to move, are you prepared to take them with you and/or find a pet-friendly place to live? If you become unable to care for your pet, what is your plan to ensure their wellbeing?
- Research - fully research the pet you are thinking about. What is their temperament like? Do they have special needs (medical, environment, training, etc.)?
These thinking points are just a few of the basic ones and are not meant to deter anyone from sharing their home and life with a pet. Having a pet is a wonderful and rewarding experience, especially when your needs and wants align with the pet's needs and wants. However, it is important to think of how you're able to enhance each other's lives by being a good fit for one another.
© Lisa McSherry 2005, 2016,
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