The Death of a Pet

Question

My cousin’s beloved dog that she had for many years just passed away. She and her young children are having a difficult time. Any suggestions that might help?

Answer

Thanks for the question. The passing of a pet is a difficult experience, especially when it is so attached to the family as was your cousin’s dog. The emotional attachment that took years to build is no longer there; the severance is painful. But the experience can be a meaningful one. It can be used to teach the children the importance of life. It can be their first example of how fleeting life is and how important it is to make the most of every day. It can be a lesson for them to treat their friends and family as best they can because all we have, after we grow old, are the mitzvos we do. Framed that way, the passing of the pet can be an important learning tool.Regards,
Rabbi Yaakov Rosenblatt

Follow-up question

Question

Do animals go to another place after death. My sons dog has died and was told that dogs do not have souls. I have observed our dog on many occasions when asleep cry and growl etc as if dreaming if he does not have a soul he certainly has a memory.

Answer

The human soul is called the Neshama. This is what lives on for those destined for the next realm. The animal soul is called the Nefesh. Both humans and animals have one, only it isn’t really a soul. It is an animating force that allows the body, including the bodily instincts, to operate. What the Nefesh is, is tantamount to a very advanced computer program, unique and custom designed by G-d for each living entity.

It’s possible, I’m not sure, that a Nefesh might be able to attach itself to a Neshama and thereby have a role in the final realm. An animal however does not have a Neshama to attach itself to. In my opinion, and some may not totally agree with me, there will not be a final place for animals as there will be for people.