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How you choose a familiar is up to you.  Choose an animal that you like and can care for.  In Ireland, Japan and China, calico and tortoiseshell cats are considered lucky.  In Southwest Indian culture, a tame mockingbird is the house protector as are barn owls and hedgehogs in rural England.  Koi are considered lucky in Japan, so even fish count as familiars.  It really doesn't matter what type of animal you have as it is intent that counts.  Please remember when you acquire and animal that you are responsible for its' life and health, for the rest of its' life.

Familiars should be protected as any other member of the family is.  A pentacle or protective rune on the collar is effective though I know one person who swears by St. Francis medals.  Whatever you choose to do, not letting the animal run loose or unvaccinated is a good bet too.

Protecting Your Familiar

Cast a circle about your pet or, if they won't sit still for it, an article closely associated with it such as a collar, favorite toy or their bed.

Light a blue candle and Invoke the Goddess:
Lady of the Land attend here
I ask of Thee protection for (animal's name)
Guard (name)
Guide (name)
Give (name) health
Keep (name) safe and far from harm.

Light a brown candle and Invoke the God:
Lord of the Wile things attend here
I ask of Thee protection for (name)
Give (name) swiftness
Give (name) strength
Keep (name) happy
Keep (name) warm

Light a white candle:
Lord and Lady I ask of Thee,
See (name), Whom I have bound to me.
Make me worthy of this bond.
Give me eyes to see Thee in (name).
Help me to care for and protect (name).
As I ask it, so mote it be.

Inscribe a protective rune or hang medallion on the animal's collar or bed.  Snuff candles and open the circle.