Update: Lexus went to where all good dogs go Thursday, April 26, 2012. I hope she knows how much I love her. I hope I see her again.
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This post is really going to be a downer. Forgive me now. I need to write this.
I need to ask this question.
I need your input.
You see, I am in the process of loosing a precious friend. One that I have had in my life for more than 16 years.
She is the apitomy of kindness, patience, loyalty and love. She is my pup, Lexus.
Meet Lexus.
Well, she’s not really a pup now. And that’s the problem.
About a year and a half ago Lex started having seizures. I had planned to put her down but some how, she made a huge tournaround and we have been able to keep her with us for a little longer.
Until lately.
Lately the walks have been shorter, the standing wobblier, the tailwagging less frequent and she’s started eating less- lots less.
It’s starting to be that time. I can feel it.
So this is where I need your help.
About a month ago I was talking to one of my best friends on the phone and we were talking about Lexus. I mentioned I look forward seeing her in Heaven.
There was an akward pause.
And then, with the utmost kindness she talked with me about what she thought Heaven would be like.
She didn’t think there would be dogs in Heaven. Or horses. Or cows.
Really?
I just couldn’t believe it. What?! I mean, what kind of Heaven wouldn’t have dogs, horses or cows? That’s about ALL my version of Heaven would include.
And you think I’m being facetious.
So to back track a bit, I should tell you about my friend on the phone. She is not just any friend. I love her. She is a best friend- so don’t be trashing her in the comments! 
That said, she does know a lot about the Bible and spends much more time studying God’s word than I do. Lots more.
So what do I need your help with?
In the next week I think we’ll be letting Lexus move on to what I picture to be a big back yard in the sky. I’m crying my eyes out typing that. I’m just not good at saying goodbye, but I think it’s time.
Do you think I will be able to see my Lexus again?
A million times over, yes. Our Creator wouldn’t leave out something as precious as our dogs. In fact I think He created them to remind us of His unconditional love.
I had to put down my Dingo girl last fall. Broke my heart and I miss her everyday. I’m sorry you have to feel like this.
Thank you for your comment and kindness, Carrie. I really need to hear this to have the courage to make that next step. So sorry to hear about Dingo. Maybe she can show Lex the ropes in Heaven.
My mom says there are animals in heaven. She said read “Heaven Is For Real” it says so. Plus if Vicki says so I know it’s true.
Love you Jodi!!
I love you, your Mom, and your sister for that matter! Thank you for the comment, Marie. It means an awful lot to me.
I have read “Heaven is for Real,” it is non fiction account of a small boy who dies during surgery, visits heaven, and returns. He revealed what he saw to his parents. The boy specifically mentions seeing horses in heaven.
Barbara, thank you very much for sharing this story and commenting. I think I need to read a few of these books. Marian mentioned this book too.
Oh Jodi I’m so so sorry. Lexus is such a good girl and has blessed your life for many years. Letting go is always so hard. But remember, God gave her to YOU! She has been yours to love and care for….no one else. What a gift! After losing my two “heart” dogs Maggie and Gracie, and feeling such an intense loss, I struggled with the same question for years (and still do). How could I love someone so much and come to grips that I’ll never see them again? I’ve searched the bible for answers too, never really finding something concrete to assure me. Maybe it’s about faith and trusting that God is good, kind, loving, and merciful. He has put such love into all He’s made, I have to believe they will be in heaven and I will hug them again. Faith is “Being sure of the things we hope for” (Hebrews 11:1). I love you Jodi and my heart hurts for you during this time. God loves you and He loves Lexus and He will strengthen you. I pray that you will feel his comfort. Call me if you need to talk.
Thank you for the reminder that Lex was a gift. You are so right. I wonder how we got so blessed to have our great pups? Love you, Sis. OXOXO
I am certain that there will be animals in heaven. In revelation the Bible talks about horses, and how the lion will lay with the lamb, and I absolutely believe we’ll be re-united with saved loved ones, our favorite dogs, good horses, and all miscarried children- well any child that died in general. So don’t worry, Jodi, you will see Lexus again.
I know that has to be hard. I’ve been there a couple times before myself.
Thank you, Jenn. Everyone here (you included) have been so reassuring.
Jodi, I agree with everyone who has already left you a note. I do believe that when we get to our Great Reward everyone who has gone before us will be there to meet us.As will all our beloved pets. I have read “Heaven is for real” and “90 Minutes in Heaven” and they reassure in my mind and heart what I had always believed that when it is our time there to meet us will be thoes we loved and went ahead to prepare the way. As I approach the first year anniversary of my mom passing away May 13th, the one thing I told her was her mom and dad would be there to greet her and to take there hands and she would be free no more pain and suffering only Love. You know we love you and will be thinking of you as you make this decision. It is not the quantity of life if the quality of her life is in pain and suffering. And someday in Gods time you will be reunited werre she will be able to run and play once again with you. Love you! ((((HUGS)))).
I love you all too, Marian. You are very correct when you say ” It is not the quantity of life if the quality of her life is in pain and suffering.” It’s hard to see a great dog suffer. Thank you for your support. XOXO
I heard an ol’ cowboy story recently about an old timer who dies and gos to heaven but they won’t let his dog or horse in, so he doesn’t go through the gate…he just rides on….then he gets to another gate that welcomes him and his animals. Curiosity gets to him so he has to ask about the first gate, and he gets told…..”that place back there?!..that was hell. This is Heaven. Your animal friends are welcome here!” I know it’s just a story but I believe there is a lot of truth in it.
This story made me smile, Chris. Thank you for the comment!
the only words that ever made it easier for me when I lost Ging were these: these special friends of ours do not live as long as we do. while they were here on this planet, you gave them the best life you could.
Thank you, Ash. Love you so much.
Hey Jodi,
So sorry that you are going through this right now! As a Christian I believe that animals do not have an eternal soul. This is the main reason I do not believe in the theology behind the animal rights movement. The Bible is clear that man rules over beast and man is free to kill and eat beast. So if your friend made the connection that your comment about Lexi being with you in heaven was implying Lexi has a soul then yes, her statements are Biblically sound. However, heaven is well, heaven. It will be a perfect place. In my opinion there are two ways to look at this. 1) Lexi will be there because heaven will be a place of perfect happiness for you. 2) Lexi will not be there but you won’t know the difference because Heaven will be a place of perfect happiness for you. Either way, your sweet Lexus has done her job on Earth and for that you can be eternally grateful.
Jodi, just realized I was calling her “Lexi” instead of “Lexus”. Sorry!!
Sarah, I call her Lexi, Noodle, Loodle and Lexus. Don’t worry about that at all. I appreciate your explanation. Your # 2 answer is what “my good friend on the phone” mentioned. I guess we will see. Thank you for your comment and kindness.
Put it this way: I can’t believe the same God that loves us so much would be so cruel as to prevent us from seeing our beloved animal buddies and partners again in Heaven. Your Lexus will be waiting for you.
Thank you for your comment, Sarah. It would certainly be a great way to be greeted in Heaven- her big smile and wiggly bottom wagging her tail.
I agree with the Lion laying down with the Lamb statement, although the argument can be made that it is purely figurative. There were animals in the Garden of Eden. Why not heaven? God loves you, you are his daughter, his precious child. He knows your pain over your loss…I can’t help but think he would bring you back together. Also, I highly recommend “Heaven is for Real”. I read it in one siting.
Thank you for the comment, Kim. Also, I appreciate your suggestion. You are the second or third person on this comment stream to suggest/mention the book. Looks like I really need to pick that up.
Jodi, I’m catching up on blogs–I’m way behind–and I saw your sweet post. I’m sorry for your loss. I’ve wondered a lot about this question of whether we’ll see our companion animals again. It’s a topic I’ve been exploring. Here’s something I found that was sort of helpful: http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2012/april/do-pets-go-to-heaven.html
Aimee, speaking of behind. I am super behind too, but I thank you for dropping in and leaving your thoughts and the link. I love the Rainbow Bridge poem too. Thanks again for stopping by.
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