It’s a mitzvah (Hebrew for “commandment”) to care for animals. There are many laws concerning animals in the Torah (the first five books of the Bible), including providing animals a day of rest and feeding our animals before we eat. The Hebrew phrase tza’ar ba’alei chayim (literally “the suffering of animals”) refers to caring for animals, and today that includes spaying and neutering pets to help stop overpopulating.
If you're looking for an easy way to incorporate Jewish values into your next play date or gathering, why not do something for the animals in your community? Follow along with the simple ideas listed below:
Call your friends
Apply for a Get Together
Pick an activity:
Each of these easy ideas uses items that you likely have around the house or involve a simple and low-key outting.
Host and enjoy
If you’d like, PJ Library will even help you cover the costs of your adventure. Visit the Get Together page to learn more.
More
All PJ Library books about kindness to animals
Kiddo Learns About Being Brave (a sweet story involving a special cat)
Kindness to Animals
January 31, 2025