Caring for God’s Creation

by Betty Mitchell RN BSN
Parish Nurse, Emmanuel Bethel Church, Royal Oak, Michigan

As we strive to love God in our life and be passionate for him, we are led to want to follow the instructions he has given us. Genesis 1:28 tells us to “have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.”

This is the time of the year many families acquire pets to be loved and cared for daily. Having a pet provides many health benefits to their caregiver, including love, comfort and companionship. Lower stress levels, increased fitness from walking or other activities with your pet are additional benefits a pet offers.

Keeping pet food away from people food will help children avoid becoming confused and eating pet food accidently. Pet food can become contaminated with germs that are harmful to pets and people. Any unused wet pet food needs to be covered and placed in the refrigerator to prevent any germs from growing on the wet food. Discard any leftover food your pet does not eat during mealtime.

One way to be sure your pet stays healthy is to take your pet to a veterinarian regularly. Sometimes pets appear healthy and normal but may be carrying germs. Additionally, germs are contained in your pet’s waste, so be sure to wash your hands after cleaning up your pet’s waste. Pregnant women should not handle kitty litter or other pet waste.

Good hand washing with running water and soap is important after caring for your pet, especially for the young child who may put his hand in or near his mouth. Also, if you have an opportunity to go to a farm or animal exhibit, hands need to be washed after feeding, petting or otherwise handling the animals.
Enjoy your new pet and exhibiting your love of God to his creation.

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/index.html; http://www.cdc.gov/features/healthypets/