Hi Lisa....I read every word of your post, and I had to say a special word in thanks to you for taking all the time and effort for putting it all out there about what the bible says concerning animals.  If I see Rufie first, I know he'll ask for you (because I believe that animals will again regain their power to speak, which they lost after the Fall.....Jubilees 3:28).  If you see Kasey first, tell him I'll be looking for him! (He'll probably say, "It's about time!)

On a more humorous side, I found a link you will enjoy because I sure did!!  One cartoon in it shows "St. Peter" at the "pearly gates" with a cat sitting right outside, and "St. Peter" says to the cat, "Out or in?"  Nobody tells a cat what to do.

http://www.heavenquestions.com/Will_My_Pet_Go_To_Heaven.html

One point that I could bring out to people who have beloved pets is that if they want to see their pets again, they won't,  unless they also have received salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.  Some people don't think about salvation at all for themselves....but they might think twice about this if they believe they might be separated from their pet forever.  It could very well be one "reward" that  "neither eyes have seen nor ears heard the things God hath prepared for those who love Him" (that's straight from my memory banks, so I'm sure God will forgive an error or two).

I hope you enjoy the link....and laugh a little at the most appropriate humor on animal thoughts...

With much love,

Arlene