Pope Francis: Animals Go To Heaven?

I spent some time as a Catholic seminarian studying for the priesthood. One of the theological lessons I remember being surprised by was the teaching that while animals have souls, their souls are not 'made in the image and likeness of God' and therefore are not eternal. Catholic teaching on animals and the afterlife has been the subject of much discussion after Pope Francis, named after St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals, was quoted as telling a young boy that he would see his departed dog again in heaven. The comment was actually made by a previous pope, Paul VI, according to CNN.com. (Click here to read what Pope Francis actually said)

I don't think the Church will ever make a definitive statement on this issue, but I'd personally like to believe that pets do get to go on to heaven. What do you think? Let us know on Facebook!