Son Light Pet Ministry

Son Light Pets began its ministry at Sagemont Church in August 2002. The requirements to become a member are to attend a workshop, have the pet tested for acceptable temperament, provide evidence of all required immunizations for the pet, and attend one visit without a pet in order to observe those with experience.

During one visit a lady with Alzheimers was introduced to an English Springer Spaniel named Misty. She smiled as she began to pet the dog. And then a long lost memory seemed to come to her mind, and she laughed out loud as she cuddled the dog. The lady’s daughter was very moved and said it was the first time her mother had shown any emotion in months. Another lady was in the rehab room when the dogs were taken in to see her. She was not being very cooperative in beginning her exercises. After she played with one of the dogs for a little while, she said “Okay, now I’m ready to work.”

The first time new volunteers see a lonely, forgotten person’s face light up with a big smile when they are visited by a pet, it is easy to understand how God can use pets to show His love to others. Even one small moment of joy and happiness brought to those who are visited makes it all worthwhile.

Animals have been recognized for years as being instrumental in the physical and emotional healing process of the elderly, those who are ill, or those who have had operations recently. Pet visits redirect a person’s attention from their boring daily routines, pain, and loneliness. During visits people are reminded of fond memories of pets they have had in the past. The pets they see on a regular basis can become a loving substitute for a pet they have had to give up.

An animal visit can be very entertaining, as pets perform tricks and welcome pats and hugs. This brings joy and laughter to those whom they visit and boosts overall morale, self-confidence, a sense of achievement, and self-esteem. Just the act of stroking a dog or cat can reduce a person’s blood pressure and lower their stress levels. Petting encourages the use of hands and arms, stimulating exercise and activity which helps circulation.

This could be the very ministry in which God is calling you to participate. Obedient pets are looking for pet owners obedient to God’s call. All who participate find they are an answer to prayer and the bright spot in some senior adult’s day. For so many senior adults, Son Light Pets is TOP DOG—THE CAT’S MEOW!

For more information about the Son Light Pet Ministry, contact Jan Smith at alwaysinhishands@sbcglobal.net or 281/286-4769; or pick up a Son Light Pet Ministry Brochure available in the foyers.