Whatever brings you here, you don’t have to face it alone.

Common Phrases I Hear Often

  • “I feel like I killed my dog when we put him to sleep.”

  • “I know it was the right thing to do, but it still hurts so much.”

  • “I waited too long — I feel so guilty for not acting sooner.”

  • “It’s been years, and I still cry when I think about them.”

  • “I had to rehome my cat and it broke my heart.”

  • “They were my best friend. I don’t know who I am without them.”

If you’ve thought or felt something like this, please know you’re not alone.

Grief for an animal can feel isolating, because the world doesn’t always recognize just how much they meant, or how much of yourself you gave to them. Here, your love and your sorrow are honored. There is nothing too big, too small, too complicated, or too long ago to bring into this space. Whatever you’re feeling is welcome.

How I Can Work With You

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to grief or healing. My role is to walk beside you — whether you’re saying goodbye, carrying memories, or navigating change. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can bring your full self and your full story.

What I Offer

Resource Support

Sometimes grief is complicated by logistics. If you're facing a situation where you need help—finding a shelter, navigating a move, or understanding your options—I can help you find trusted resources and support.

Ritual & Grief Support

Some people want a formal ceremony. Others need something quieter. I help you find the right way to honor your animal—whether that’s a funeral, a graveside service, letting balloons go at the park, or simply lighting a candle. Together, we’ll create a ritual that feels meaningful to you.

Pet Loss Bereavement Group

Sometimes the most healing thing is knowing you’re not alone. This virtual group offers a safe, welcoming space to share your story, meet others who understand your pain, and find comfort in community.

Non-Death Loss Support

Not every loss is final. You may be rehoming a pet, moving to a facility that doesn’t allow animals, or going through a life transition where keeping your companion isn’t possible. These are real, painful moments—and I’m here to help you through them.

How Payment Works

I do not charge a set fee for visits or support sessions. Instead, I invite those who are able to make a donation—either to a local animal shelter, a sanctuary, or a cause that matters to them. If you need suggestions, I’d be happy to share organizations I support personally. Your presence is enough. A gift is welcome, never expected.

What does an animal chaplain do?

An animal chaplain is someone trained to provide spiritual and emotional support around the deep bond we share with animals. I sit with people in moments of loss, transition, and uncertainty. I don’t offer quick fixes or clinical diagnoses — I offer presence. Sometimes that looks like a ritual or blessing. Sometimes it's simply listening with compassion and without judgment.

What are reasons why I might need an animal chaplain?

You might reach out because your pet is dying—or because they’ve already passed. You may be grappling with guilt, heartbreak, or spiritual questions. Or perhaps you're not facing a loss, but simply need someone to talk to who understands how much your animal means to you. Any reason is a good reason.

Do animals have souls?

Yes, I believe they do. Anyone who has shared life with an animal knows they are sentient beings with unique personalities, deep emotions, and an ability to love and connect. Their souls are as real and sacred as ours.

Does my pet go to heaven?

Of course. Heaven surely makes room for the beings who love us unconditionally. Your beloved companion is held in love, always.

Where does my animal go when they die?

There’s no one answer to this question, and it often depends on your own beliefs. What I can offer is this: the love you shared doesn’t disappear. It changes form, but it stays with you—in memory, in spirit, and in the quiet ways they shaped your life.

Why do animals suffer?

This is one of the hardest questions there is. I don't pretend to have all the answers. But I believe we live in a complicated world—one filled with both beauty and brokenness. What I can offer is companionship in the asking, and comfort in the wondering. You don’t have to carry these questions alone.

Why do bad things happen to good people (and animals)?

Sometimes there’s no easy explanation for why pain enters our lives. What matters is not just why it happened, but how we move through it. I’m here to help you make space for sorrow without rushing to make sense of it. Grief is not a problem to be solved—it’s a reflection of how deeply we’ve loved.

If you have a question not listed here, I welcome you to ask during your free visit.

Frequently Asked Questions