Sed contra: dogs have mortal souls and thus are annihaliated on death. So while nothing's impossible with God, it's clear that animals simply cease to exist after death So cherish dogs
On conscience: it needs to be rightly formed. A book I've heard recommended is Fr Goshel's A small still voice which addresses this confusing issue
Ignatian spiritual exercises are helpful for examination of conscience.

Learn the easy way: does he mean be smart, think smart and think outside of the box how you can compete with the excellent types?

Overall good advice it's up to us to adapt it to our situations and worldview

xavier