Have you ever experienced the profound heartbreak of losing a beloved family pet? Non-pet owners often struggle to understand the deep, emotional bond formed between a pet and its owner. For many of us, our animals are truly part of the family, and saying goodbye brings immense sorrow.
The comforting truth of the restored gospel is that we do not have to say goodbye to our furry friends forever. The doctrine regarding animals in the resurrection is absolutely beautiful, deeply doctrinal, and full of eternal hope. The embedded document below outlines exactly what prophets have taught regarding the eternal souls of all living creatures.
The Premortal Spirit of Every Creature
Did you know that animals have spirits just like human beings do? According to modern revelation found in the Doctrine and Covenants, every creature was created as a spirit in heaven long before it was placed physically on the earth. Their physical, mortal bodies were actually created in the exact likeness of their eternal spirits.
This means that animals had a distinct premortal existence before arriving on this earth. The Lord has revealed that all living things pass through this beautiful, divine pattern of being created spiritually before receiving a physical body. Understanding this pattern completely changes how we view the animals that share our homes and our world.
The Saving Power of the Infinite Atonement
Many people mistakenly believe that salvation is strictly limited to human beings. However, the Prophet Joseph Smith clearly taught that animals are mortal and subject to death, meaning they will be saved through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The Savior’s infinite sacrifice gracefully covers all of God’s magnificent creations.
Because of this redeeming power, animals in the resurrection will be found in heaven in myriad forms. They will come from myriad worlds, enjoying eternal felicity and happiness. Amazingly, the Prophet even taught that these animals will be found praising God in languages that God perfectly understands!
Distinct Spheres and Eternal Felicity
While it is true that animals have spirits, there is a very important doctrinal distinction to understand. We are the literal, begotten sons and daughters of Heavenly Father, whereas animals are not. However, this does not diminish their eternal value or their secure place in the afterlife.
The First Presidency has officially declared that the entire animal creation will be perfected and perpetuated in the Hereafter. Each class of animal will exist in its own distinct order or sphere. Within that perfect sphere, they will enjoy eternal happiness and a complete fullness of joy.
Prophetic Promises About Beloved Pets
For grieving pet owners, this doctrine brings an incredible amount of personal comfort. The affirmative answer to whether animals have souls is amply sustained by divine revelation. In fact, Joseph Smith so deeply believed this truth that he explicitly expected to have his favorite horse with him in eternity.
Joseph Fielding Smith further declared that animals, as well as man, are to be beautifully recreated or renewed. He taught that they are living souls who will come forth to enjoy the magnificent blessing of immortal life. Your beloved pets are not gone forever; they are simply waiting for the glorious morning of the resurrection.
The Grand Plan for All Forms of Life
This eternal promise extends far beyond our household pets to all of God’s creations. Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught that animals, birds, fowls, fishes, and plants all play an eternal role in the great plan of salvation. They occupy an assigned sphere that is absolutely essential to the universe.
Knowing about animals in the resurrection gives us a much deeper respect for all forms of life on earth today. Take a few moments to read the comforting 3-page document below. It is guaranteed to bring profound peace to anyone grieving the loss of a furry friend!
