Do dogs (or any other animals) go to Heaven when they die?

Ok so let me get this straight. Our pets have souls but somehow we have decided that they are like our souls?

We are made in the image of God. Animals, while amazing creatures, are not. I love my pets but I do recognize that they are pets. Domesticated animals. But not human. Not redeemed by Christ. Not created for perfect union with God in heaven.

Domesticing animals still leaves them as animals. The human traits that are projected upon them are a by-product of domestication. We have just removed their ability to live in the wild by teaching them how to live like us. And they learn well don't they. Are you who desire to "see" your pet in heaven also content with hanging out with mosquitoes and snakes? Hey, they were created by God as well and in the case of snakes, they aren't just for Satan anymore eh? Many people domesticate them as well. Do you anticipate eating in heaven....or perhaps I should ask what's for dinner at the feast?

I am certain that there will be a different time, when our resurrected bodies (an yes our bodies will be resurrected and perfected as noted in the creed as someone else has already pointed out) will see a peaceful coexistance with animals but it's not in anyway the same as the unity of our souls' to God's. Scripture is clear that when Jesus reigns there will be peace among all animals and humans. That is the new heaven and the new earth that are created.

Interesting to think about why there would be a need for a new heaven and a new earth isn't it? And imagine on the new earth there will be no sea! What about the fish? Where's their soul going?

While animals may have a soul, it's not like ours. They are not given a brain like ours and they are not given an opportunity to sin because they do not have a conscience with which to know good and evil and make a choice. They are not made in the image of God but are created beings subjugated to us by God. They can not be united with God anymore than a tree can, because they are not made in His image. They can not choose perfection.

I have an awesome dog and an amazing cat that I completely adore. And I often feel that I am more controlled by them then them by me. While I may not anticipate reuniting with them in heaven, I do believe that they are one of God's greatest graces that He has bestowed upon me and that knowledge of God's incredible creative ability and mercy to me is something I definitely will always be grateful for and praise Him for.

Please understand that I am not denying God's mercy on animals, I just don't see any evidence in scripture or Church teaching to encourage us to visualize heaven as an extension of the time, place and senses that we have here on earth. You will not need the "love" of your animal companion in heaven because you will have been perfected by that point and you will be fully united with Christ; a love far surpassing anything you've experienced. It's what He prayed for an I'm pretty sure He'll complete what He started.

I suggest that everyone enjoy your pets but keep in mind that it is your relationship with Jesus that is of greatest concern to God and to your eternity. Puppies don't have those concerns.

Why do some of you guys insist that because a creature doesn't have an immortal soul, it couldn't possibly be in Heaven? Don't you think that Heaven is full of all sorts of creatures and plants? Imagine a Heaven with no flowers or trees. That's not Heaven. Nor is one without beloved animals. Fact is, none of us knows exactly what Heaven looks like or who's there. Some have had NDE's (Near Death Experiences) and have described a very beautiful place with rivers, trees, flowers, music, wonderful aroma's and animals. Nonetheless, spending eternity with nothing but a bunch of human souls in communion with angels, etc. seems rather boring to me.