Materialists believe that when a being dies physically, its life ends. Religions are divided as to whether non-human animals are believed to have souls, reincarnate or none.
In the absence of a common belief, many pet owners have adopted feelings towards the Rainbow Bridge, a metaphorical or mythical place of reunion where pets that die live in a paradisiacal version of limbo, rejuvenated and free of pain and suffering, until their companion humans or other animals arrive in the course of time. At this point, they enter heaven as companions and loved ones, never to be divided again. In many pet-related communities, pets who have died are often referred to as being At the bridge or ATB.
Some Christians take comfort in Bible verses or stories that seem to point to the existence of animals in heaven, such as references to "the lion lying down with the lamb." Another popular passage is the well-known Matthew 5:8, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
In LDS theology, all organisms (as well as Earth as a planet) are believed to have a spirit, but that beings without the gift of free agency (the ability to know and choose between right and wrong) are innocent and unblemished spirits who go straight to Heaven when they die, unlike humans who spend some time in spirit prison first. It is believed that pets can be reunited completely with their human companions after they both have passed on.
Animal chaplains are becoming increasingly popular for helping the bereaved family members deal with the loss of their pet, to provide memorial services, give spiritual reassurance their pet is in heaven,and to provide grief counseling. The Interfaith Association of Animal Clergy boasts more than 35 members around the world, and is training new students to become Animal Chaplains.