One thing that I like to think is that we know almost nothing about life here and hereafter. Even thought many departed people pass information down to us of what they perceive the spirit world to be like, little is known about it; and much of what we know, may be biased information (based on their ability to perceive things). There are many schools of thought in the spirit world and they are known to differ in their ideas. In the book “A Wanderer in the Spirit Lands,” states that “It is a mistake to suppose that in the spirit world of our planet there is any absolute knowledge which can explain all the great mysteries of Creation, the why and wherefore of our being…” In regards to animals, we know that domesticated animals are, to a great extent, able to express love and to communicate, etc. If these character qualities are not from the Consciousness/Intelligence/Soul inhabiting the animal form, then, where are they coming from? I would like to think that we are all individual intelligences in our own path of progression, developing our Self Consciousness Soul and/or Intelligence. Some inhabit human forms and others, perhaps less developed individual intelligences, inhabit animal and vegetables forms. Nonetheless, all have the ability and opportunity to progress beyond their present state. I think that the dimensions of the worlds beyond would be a very boring place to spend eternity without the existence of all living things.