Why teaching about dying, hospice, and the natural cycle of life and death matters to pets, parents, and professionals.

In this candid conversation, Gail and Karen explore the hidden gaps in veterinary education, especially around end-of-life care, the natural dying process, and how our cultural fear of death has shaped the way veterinarians are trained.

From hospice and palliative care to ritual, grief, and honoring the sacred moment of passing, this episode invites listeners to consider: What if we redefined how we teach and talk about death — not just in veterinary schools, but in society as a whole?

Whether you're a pet parent, a veterinarian, or someone caring for a beloved animal near the end of life, this heartfelt discussion offers perspective, compassion, and a path forward.

Includes:

• Pet loss
• Hospice and natural death
• Euthanasia culture
• Veterinary education gaps
• Cultural disconnection from death
• Compassion fatigue and mental health

📌 Related Resource - Blog Post: "Rethinking Veterinary Education: Why Training for Death and Dying Matters"

💬 If this episode touched your heart, you’re not alone. The BrightHaven Caregivers’ Hub is our supportive membership community for pet parents navigating caregiving, anticipatory grief, and all the moments in between.

We gather to share stories, ask questions, and care for each other as we care for our animals. If you’re walking this path, we’d be honored to walk it with you.

🔗 Learn more about the Hub: https://brightpathforpets.com/caregivers-hub/

📌Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review 🐶⭐🐱

📌Learn More from BrightHaven Caregiver Academy For free resources, upcoming workshops, and a supportive community dedicated to navigating life with your aging or ill pet:

• Visit our website: brightpathforpets.com
• Join us on Youtube: www.youtube.com/@brighthaven_animals

📌Connect with Us on Social:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/brightpathforpets
• Instagram: @brightpathforpets

📌Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional advice. As always, remember that our insights come from decades of caregiving experience. For any medical questions, your veterinarian is the best resource.

What happens after your pet dies at home? In this tender and practical conversation, Karen Wylie and Gail Pope guide pet parents through what to expect—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. From how to care for your pet’s body, to creating space for honoring and grief, this episode is filled with comforting insights and gentle support.

Whether you’re planning ahead or navigating a recent loss, you’ll find reassurance and clarity here.

📌 Related Resource: PEACEFUL: The Quality of Dying Guide: Signs of a Peaceful Passing PDF - This guide is designed to help pet parents observe signs indicating an acceptable quality of life that supports the natural, peaceful dying process.

💬 If this episode touched your heart, you’re not alone. The BrightHaven Caregivers’ Hub is our supportive membership community for pet parents navigating caregiving, anticipatory grief, and all the moments in between.

We gather to share stories, ask questions, and care for each other as we care for our animals. If you’re walking this path, we’d be honored to walk it with you.

🔗 Learn more about the Hub: https://brightpathforpets.com/caregivers-hub/

📌Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review 🐶⭐🐱

Learn More from BrightHaven Caregiver Academy For free resources, upcoming workshops, and a supportive community dedicated to navigating life with your aging or ill pet:

• Visit our website: brightpathforpets.com
• Join us on Youtube: www.youtube.com/@brighthaven_animals

Connect with Us on Social:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/brightpathforpets
• Instagram: @brightpathforpets

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional advice.

What if grieving the loss of your beloved pet wasn’t something you had to do alone—or quietly, or quickly? In this week’s episode, Karen and Gail share the heartwarming story of the BrightHaven Rose Ceremony, a monthly ritual of remembrance created to honor the animals who had passed and the humans who loved them. From candles and rose petals to laughter and stories, this ceremony offered a sacred space for grieving, healing, and celebrating.

Tune in to hear its origin, the memories that live on, and an invitation to join us for a new online version this summer.

📌 Stay Connected with Us: https://brightpathforpets.myflodesk.com/bca-mailing-list

💬 If this episode touched your heart, you’re not alone. The BrightHaven Caregivers’ Hub is our supportive membership community for pet parents navigating caregiving, anticipatory grief, and all the moments in between.

We gather to share stories, ask questions, and care for each other as we care for our animals. If you’re walking this path, we’d be honored to walk it with you.

🔗 Learn more about the Hub: https://brightpathforpets.com/caregivers-hub/

📌Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review 🐶⭐🐱

Learn More from BrightHaven Caregiver Academy For free resources, upcoming workshops, and a supportive community dedicated to navigating life with your aging or ill pet:

• Visit our website: brightpathforpets.com
• Join us on Youtube: www.youtube.com/@brighthaven_animals

Connect with Us on Social:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/brightpathforpets
• Instagram: @brightpathforpets

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional advice.