What happens to dogs after they die

Nobody knows the answer to my question, but I guess I am looking for a logical explanation to help me feel better about my loss. I put my black lab to sleep yesterday and it was the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my life. She was only 7, and was suffering from pancreatic cancer, which I did not know she had until last Monday. This type of cancer has no early symptoms, and when the symptoms do occur, it's usually not until the very last stage.

I am so sorry for you. I know how very hard it is to lose one of your family like that. I just recently had to have my lab put down because she had stomach cancer. Same thing-- no early signs, and then it was too late.

As for where dogs go, I have several answers. First, rent a movie called "What Dreams May Come" with Robin Williams. It's pretty good about helping with death issues.

Then, have you ever watched a medium on TV by the name of John Edward? He frequently tells people that their loved ones are trying to "come through" and he references animals that they have with them. Gives me a lot of hope...

And thirdly, I have first hand information from my father. This is kind of weird, but it's 100% true. For a while I had two of the most precious little Rottie puppies who loved my dad and he loved them (even though he was very sick). One of them died from kennel cough and the other one had a fatal accident (long story). The night my father died I had an extremely vivid dream and in it he told me that I shouldn't worry, that he was okay and in heaven, and the two puppies had met him there. So, whatever your religious beliefs are, I choose to believe that all my beloved pets will be waiting for me when I get there. I'm sure yours will be, too.