I have some troubles in understanding what pronoun to use when referring to things be they inanimate things, living things, wild, tamed animals or pets, for I saw either use.
When referring to a lion, for example, shall I use he or it, she, her or it, its?
Even in case of a ship or a space ship I came across with expression like this: her crew.
Would you please explain if there is a strict rule or depends on the author’s choice?