Some religious people who believed in the existence of an afterlife for humans also share their thoughts about animals going to heaven. As gathered by a North Carolina State University’s study; a personal belief for afterlife for humans can actually help shape belief in an animal afterlife.
In the study titled “Do All Dogs Go to Heaven?” which is second to none, to have systematically explored American’s beliefs about animal afterlife via 800 research participants in attendance; three clinical science professors Kenneth D. Royal, April A. Kedrowicz and Amy M. Snyder all from the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine found that 73 percent of those who believed in human afterlife also believed in an animal afterlife.
Females (51 percent).
American Indian/Alaska natives (71.4 percent).
African-Americans (58.5 percent).
Buddhists (77.3 percent).
People living in the South (50.3 percent) and pet owners (45 percent).
Dr. Royal, one of the study authors, said:
“The notion of the human-animal bond is pervasive in the United States. “Yet, Americans are incredibly diverse in terms of their backgrounds, experiences and views. We wanted to explore this issue further by investigating the role that one’s religious views might have in understanding this relationship and the value of pets.”
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Dr. Kedrowicz explains how the findings could help guide veterinarians in their interactions with pet owners.
“Spirituality and beliefs about animals, including animal afterlife, undoubtedly impact what clients think, how clients feel and what decisions they make. So veterinarians should explore and acknowledge client perspectives to build trust and actively engage them in the process of animal care.
Findings provided by North Carolina State University.
