In 2013, the Pope took the name of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, and since that time has injected himself as an advocate for not just animals, but also for the health of the planet. It was recently reported that, during an address at St. Peters, the Pope attempted to provide solace for young boy who had just lost his dog. He told the boy all dogs do go to heaven (as well as all animals), “One day we will see our animals again in eternity of Christ. Paradise is open to all God’s creatures.”