animal chaplaincy

Some of the hardest loss I’ve known is that of a pet.

In August of 2021, I said goodbye to my cat (or as I liked to call him, “my heart in a fur coat”), Thor. Prior to that, I spent months in an intense season of care with him as his kidneys failed. Animal loss and hospice care are some of the hardest things I’ve had to deal with.

If you are facing care for chronic illness, a hospice situation with your animal, or pet loss, let’s find out together what can feel supportive to you. There are a lot of possibilities for support including space to share experiences or talking through end of life options.

support for pet loss, hospice, and other difficulties

  • When I think of chaplaincy, I think of the phrase "coming alongside." My wish for our time together is to be truly present to what the situation is together. I want you to feel heard, cared for, and supported through what I know is an incredibly hard situation.

    It should be noted that this offering is not a substitute for therapy, though it can feel therapeutic. It is a great support to therapy.

  • This support is for folks of all kinds, all spiritual beliefs (including those who don’t feel especially spiritual) and who have all types of animals. Even if you don't wish to speak about "spiritual" matters specifically, this support is here for you.

  • Animal chaplaincy can look many different ways. We can spend time with your animal (walks in the park, time in treatment). We can sit together and talk (in person, over the phone, or online) about anything you need including decisions for your animal, ritual and ceremony, and every other piece of your experience.

  • We will work together to discover what kind of timeframe feels the most beneficial to you. Maybe you would like one session together or perhaps there's an ongoing situation that you'd like to spend more time with.

    This work is by donation, so your generosity is appreciated.

  • Yes! I facilitate peer support groups both online and in person in Columbus, OH.

    These are currently on hold, but once the option is available, you’ll be able to find out more here.

  • The pet loss support text line is a warm line that allows people to reach support when they need it. For those who prefer text over other forms of communication, this is also a great option.


    You can find out more at petlosstextline.org

schedule time

“Grief is love with no place to go.”

- Frank Ostaseski