First of all congratulations and mazzal tov. Second of all, I would suggest the following reflection/prayer. And third of all, I suggest reading Psalms chapter 104, which is a very beautiful Biblical passage showing how animals can help us to appreciate God.
“As your grandparent, I am very proud of your achievements. One very fond memory is your project on Therapy and guide dogs. In that spirit, I would like to share with you a short passage from the 104th psalm, whcih speaks of the harmony in God’s world. “God sends forth springs in the valleys, and they meander between the mountains. They provide water for all the animals of the field, and the wild-asses can slake their thirst. On them, the birds of the field dwell, and from among the branches they send forth their voices. From his high heavens, God gives water to the mountains , and from the fruit of Your actions, the earth is satisfied. God provides fodder for animals, and plants for people’s work, and thus brings forth bread from the earth.” This short passage ends with the phrase “who brings forth bread from the earth” which is the basis for the HaMotsi blessing that Jews say before eating bread. It reminds us to appreciate all the wonderful natural things in the world, and to see nature, animals, and plants, as special creations of God. I hope that you will always remember to look at animals and plants with a sense of wonder, and to see in them the beauty that God has given us in this world. ”
Note that the quote above is from verses 10-14 of the 104th chapter of Psalms, in my translation. You may prefer a different translation. Shana tova!
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