I agree with you on most of that. The only thing I struggle with really is getting from my head to my heart. I know I can't put my trust in animals or in other sources for that matter. But I can't bring myself to let it go either.
I believe that animals do have souls but I will contend that they don't have human souls. I don't know if there going to heaven or not. I want them too, but I'm afraid they won't and I'll be alone again. It's an amazing feeling to be standing in the middle of a crowd and feel alone. I never want to have to feel that again! I know that now that I truely know the Father but sometimes He feels so far away and animals are right here. I can touch them. I want to let God take there place but it's easier said then done.