Gabriel is the most amazing of dogs. He is loyal, trusting and courageous. He is intuitive, energetic and intelligent.

We rehomed Gabriel as a family pet over 6 years ago. He had a difficult history, and he was a handful to say the least. A lurcher crossed with a staffie with a strong prey drive!

In the midst of his enthusiasm for befriending any human being he meets, the thing that stands out about Gabriel is his intelligence. He loves cheese, so he learned to open the fridge door with his nose. When we put a child proof lock on it, that was no deterrent. And when we put him in the next room, he opened the door handle to get into the kitchen. He is one determined dog.

In the last six months, Gabriel has had cancer. He has had surgery and chemotherapy. His prognosis is reasonable . The vet team have all been wonderfully thoughtful and helpful- I cannot thank them enough.

Gabriel has been amazing. He has tolerated the treatment almost without complaint. He has had his pain killers, anti nausea drugs, and just wanted to curl up beside me and rest and heal. He still totally loves eating, enjoys the variety of sniffs on his walks, and wags his tail wildly when he sees me. He is the most noble of creatures!

Pets are such a blessing. With my dog, I have spent so much time with him recently, there has just grown such a deep affinity. I often know what he is thinking- although it can just be a variety of food, walkies and more treats! (He also loves coffee, but I have him on decaffeinated).

Looking after an animal is such a privilege.  It has reminded me of the importance of conservation, and to care for every creature, whether giraffes or porcupines, humming birds or sea turtles. Appreciating the intricate way that they are made, their nature and abilities is so inspiring. It is a blessing indeed.

In Genesis 1:21  it says ‘So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living thing with which the water teems and that moves about in it, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.’ The precious nature and wonder of all living creatures is acknowledged.

Gabriel is doing well just now, and I cherish every day with him, with all his foibles and eccentricities – he is a loyal and wonderful companion. May we cherish all the animals and creatures on this earth, and treat them with thoughtfulness and care.

Creator God, With power and imagination and ingenuity, You have formed all things, all birds and animals and fish, and declared them to be good. Open our eyes to the wonder of the natural world. Lord Jesus we confess that we are greedy, and exploit the earth. We extract resources, we overfish and pollute the waters. Forgive us our destructive attitudes and habits. May our noble and loyal pets remind us of the wonder and unique personality of each creature, and may we treat each one with care and compassion. We thank you for all vets and conservation organisations, who seek to preserve life. Bless all pets, and may we be wise and thoughtful owners, who do our best for all, Amen