Coping with the loss of a pet
I would speak to my pastor about this, but he is brand new to our church, and he does not know me (more than a hello here and there), nor my background, and I don't want to come across as sounding weird to him. I have read the other questions submitted about animals or our personal pets in heaven. I recently lost my dog. He was more than that to me. He was a service animal, a therapy dog who visited local hospitals, nursing homes, schools, etc. He was my first dog ever, and he was my best friend. He even visited the kids at our church's school on several occasions. I am heartbroken. I am going to work because I have to, and staying busy there to not think about it. But, once I am home, I am a mess. I want to seek God's comfort, but I feel bad, especially if there ends up being no animals or our pets in heaven. I know that none of us will ever know this until we get there. I haven't gone to church in the past few weeks because of this. I know God is my refuge in troubles, but is losing my dog considered one? I don't want God to be angry at me because I haven't gone to church, but I also don't want to be praying to him for unattainable things either.
As one who has had dogs for pets most of my life, I can appreciate your question. As you noted, the Bible is silent on the subject of animals (and our earthly pets) being in the new heaven and the new earth. We do know that God will meet our every need and we will have perfect joy (Revelation 21:1-4).
Scripture does not define or limit “trouble” when it says that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). God stands ready to be your refuge and to strengthen you in your loss. He also says to you, “Call on me in the day of trouble” (Psalm 50:15). God does not define or limit “trouble” in that verse either.
With that in mind, I encourage you to return to your church family for worship. God provides strength through his gospel in word and sacrament. God can provide strength through the encouragement of fellow believers—including your pastor. Don’t keep your distance from him thinking that your trouble is strange or unimportant. Do seek his counsel.
I certainly do not want to be insensitive to your loss, so please receive this last suggestion in the caring spirit in which it is given. While our pets are unique and perhaps not replaceable, you can consider filling the void in your life with another dog. If he was your service animal, finding another dog may already be in the works.
Our God shows his kindness and love to us each day in so many ways. Providing companionship through pets is one of those ways. For that we thank him. God bless you.