Dear Auntie Agony,
My dog Cocoa is really old and I’m afraid she’s going to die soon. Do animals really go to heaven?

The Bible doesn’t specifically say if animals go to heaven or not, but it would be easier for those of us who love animals if it did! Here are a few things we do know:

1. God cares for animals. He created them and according to Genesis 1:22 He blessed them.

2. God watches his animals. Matthew 10:29 tells us that not even a sparrow falls to the ground without God knowing about it.

3. In heaven there will be no unhappiness, whether our pets are there or not. We don’t understand how this happens, but He promises this to be true.

I love my dog, Brie, and it’s hard for me to think that she won’t be with me. But like everything else I love, I have to place her in God’s good hands and trust that He has a plan for her – and for me – that’s just right. Can you place Cocoa in God’s good and loving hands, too?

You care for people and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your unfailing love, O God!
Psalm 36:6c-7a