Do Pets Go to Heaven? A Child’s Question, A Heart’s Hope

D E V O T I O N A L

^{Do Pets Go to Heaven? A Child’s Question, A Heart’s Hope}

“Fish go to heaven, right?”

And while I’m pretty quick-witted and can usually grab a necessary laugh to get out of a predicament, my mind froze.

“Yes, why wouldn’t God accept His creation into heaven if He wanted?”

All. I. Could. Muster.

Sometimes, the questions of a child hold more weight than we realize. Sometimes, their faith is purer, simpler—uncomplicated by the “theological debates” we adults like to wrap ourselves in.

The little hands in my lap clenched tightly. “So then…will I see Dory again?”

I wanted to say yes. Oh, how I wanted to say yes. But what I knew deep down was that this moment wasn’t just about a pet fish. It was about eternity, about loss, about whether God’s love could be trusted even when it didn’t give us clear answers.

So I did the only thing I knew to do. I wrapped my arms around that little one, held them close, and whispered, “God loves you so much, and He knows how much you loved Dory. And if seeing Dory again will bring you joy in heaven, then I trust that God has something beautiful planned.”

Big, wide eyes blinked at me, absorbing my words, weighing them against their grief.

“Heaven is supposed to be happy, right?”

“Right.”

“Then I think God wouldn’t let me be sad there.”

And just like that, the faith of a child settled what my heart had been wrestling with.

Heaven is a place of joy, a place where loss is no more. And while I may not have all the answers about the details, I know this—God is good, and He cares about what we care about. His love is bigger than we understand. And if He crafted the smallest creature with such care, I trust that He holds all things—including the ones we grieve—in His hands.

So if you’ve ever wondered, if you’ve ever wrestled with that same question, take heart: The God who created the stars, the mountains, the oceans, and the tiniest fish…He sees you. He loves you. And one day, in the fullness of His presence, there will be no more tears, only the joy of eternity.

Much Love & Blessings,

Ramzi 

E N C O U R A G E M E N T - I N - A C T I O N

Family Corner 

The loss of a pet may seem small to an adult, but to a child, it can be their first real experience with grief. This is an opportunity to teach them about God’s love, eternity, and the comfort He gives in loss.

• Acknowledge their feelings – Instead of minimizing their sadness, reassure them that it’s okay to feel grief and that God cares about every tear.

• Use simple truths – You don’t have to have all the answers. Remind them that heaven is a place of joy, and God’s plan is always good.

• Create a moment of gratitude – Encourage your child to thank God for the time they had with their pet and to pray for peace in their hearts.

Question for Reflection: How can you use this moment to teach a child about God’s goodness and eternity?

Relationship Insight

Grief is personal, whether it’s over a pet, a loved one, or a season of loss. When someone we care about is grieving, our instinct is often to fix it with words—but sometimes, the best comfort is simply being there.

• Listen before you speak – Sometimes, the best thing you can do is offer your presence instead of trying to provide answers.

• Remind them they are seen and loved – God’s comfort often comes through His people. A simple “I’m here for you” or “I’m praying for you” can be a gift.

• Point them to God’s promises – The hope of eternity is our greatest reassurance. Revelation 21:4 reminds us that one day, God will wipe away every tear.

Question for Reflection: How can you offer comfort to someone who is grieving this week?

Mental Health Minute

Loss—no matter how small—can stir deep emotions. If you’re grieving a pet, a loved one, or even a season of change, know that God welcomes your sorrow.

• Grief isn’t linear – One day you may feel fine, the next day a memory may bring tears. That’s okay.

• Find comfort in prayer – Bring your sorrow to God. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.”He is near.

• Honor the memory, but don’t stay in the sorrow – Reflect on the joy they brought and trust that God has a plan for healing your heart.

Question for Reflection: Is there a loss in your life you need to process with God today?

Financial Wisdom

Financial burdens often accompany loss in unexpected ways. Whether it’s the cost of vet bills, unexpected expenses, or simply the emotional impact of financial stress, it’s important to remember that God cares about every aspect of our lives—including our finances.

• Be a Wise Steward in Every Season – Loss can sometimes trigger emotional spending or financial decisions made out of stress. Take a moment to pause, pray, and create a plan before making any big decisions.

• Trust God’s Provision – Matthew 6:26 reminds us that God takes care of the birds—how much more will He take care of you? Even in seasons of financial difficulty, He is your provider.

• Practice Gratitude Over Anxiety – Instead of focusing on what’s been lost, look at what God has already provided. Keeping a financial gratitude journal can shift your perspective from fear to faith.

• Prepare for the Unexpected – If you’re able, consider setting up a small emergency savings fund. Proverbs 21:20 reminds us that “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Even a little bit of preparation can create financial peace.

Question for Reflection: Are you trusting God with your financial needs, or carrying the burden alone?

Biblical Perspective – Trusting the Unknown to a Known God

The Bible doesn’t specifically say what happens to animals after they pass, but what it does make clear is this: Heaven is a place of joy, renewal, and God’s perfect love.

• God’s Creation is Good – Genesis 1:25 tells us that God created animals and called them good. He cares for all He has made.

• A Future of Restoration – Romans 8:21 speaks of creation being set free from brokenness. If God plans to renew the earth, how much more will He restore what brings His children joy?

• Heaven is a Place Without Loss – Revelation 21:4 promises no more death, sorrow, or pain. If God sees and loves our grief, we can trust that He has a beautiful plan beyond what we can imagine.

Question for Reflection: How does trusting in God’s goodness help you navigate life’s unknowns?