Support for Pet Loss, Hospice, and Other Difficulties
This work is in loving honor of Thor.
2003-2021
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 condition, a hospice situation with your animal, pet loss, or some other difficult season, let’s find out together what can feel supportive to you.
Home of the Pet Loss Support Text Line
While the text line is one way to access support, there are others to meet you where you need. See below for more.
-
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.
-
I will work with you 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.
The text line can be reached at 614-285-7122
The text line is actively monitored Monday-Friday from 12-6p ET. Outside of this time, texts are responded to within 24 hours (usually much sooner).
Please note that no medical advice is given and any emergency pet health or owner mental health situations should be supported by the appropriate organizations.
Want to support the text line? Please consider donating.
You can find more information here.
“Grief is love with no place to go.”
- Frank Ostaseski