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Pets and other animal companions have been a part of the Jewish family for centuries even as Jewish tradition has looked ambivalently upon these creatures. The rituals presented here attempt to draw on Jewish traditions and cultural experiences to create a Jewish framework for recognizing the roles animal companions play in our lives. |
Some of these rituals are lighthearted and playful, some more serious, recognizing the unique and varied relationships of animals to our lives. From pet adoption and blessings, through the death of an animal companion, these pages are dedicated to the animals that accompany us on our Jewish journeys.
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Blessing of the Animals | Complete Ceremony
By Joshua Snyder
A Hillula for Rav Kook celebrating the role of animals in our lives
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Blessing Animals on Friday Night | Ritual Component
Shabbat blessings for cats and dogs
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Burial Service for an Animal Companion | Complete Ceremony
By Rabbi Susan Schein
Rituals for the burial, with suggestions for additional ways of memorializing and remembering
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Grieving the Loss of a Pet | Article
By Rabbi Rona Shapiro
An article about ways of dealing with the loss of a pet in a Jewish way
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Kaddish for a Beloved Pet | Prayer
by Rabbi Steve Kirschner
A prayer recited by individuals mourning the loss of an animal companion
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Ritual for Adopting a Pet | Complete Ceremony
By Joshua Snyder
Based on the NACAC (North American Council on Adoptable Children) candle-lighting ceremony
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Creating a Ritual for the Loss of a Companion Animal | Article
By Joshua Snyder
A guide for creating one’s own ritual for saying goodbye to a companion animal
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