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It’s the Intention of Expectations That Counts the Most

After seeing an ad promoting yet another device promising to get your dog to immediately do what you want (in this case to stop barking), I started thinking about the unrealistic expectations many of us humans have of animals. I was also reminded of the prevailing and often unconscious attitude that animals are merely property … Read more

Help Your Loved One Live the Best Life Possible Each & Every Day!

BrightHaven is a leader in the emerging field of animal hospice AND we’re also renowned for our holistic healthcare.   We’ve combined these two specialties into our latest online course, presented by BrightHaven’s President and Founder Gail Pope and Education Program Specialist Carol Hulse:   BrightHaven Holistic Animal Hospice: Fundamentals We understand that many pet … Read more

What Hope Taught Me About Fear

At BrightHaven, we often talk about following the wisdom of the animals. In fact, that’s how our Menu for Healing, the cornerstone of BrightHaven’s work, came into being! I was blessed to meet and spend time with many wise and wonderful animals while I lived on the BrightHaven sanctuary property in Santa Rosa, CA, for … Read more

A Loving Tribute to a BrightHaven Legend

dog joyfully running on wheels

BrightHaven President and Founder Gail Pope pays loving tribute to Bailey, a larger-than-life being: “March 26 th at 730pm saw the ending of yet another BrightHaven era, with the death of our amazing super-dog-man and old soul, Bailey. I am not sure that I can do justice to this larger-than-life character and the depth of … Read more

Saying Farewell to Our Lovely Layla

Black and white cat on table

BrightHaven President and Founder Gail Pope shares a heartfelt message about her beloved Layla: “I would like to share with you today the story of my Layla: a cat who lived, loved and died with us and along the way taught me more than I can ever say about love, dignity, acceptance and perseverance. Layla … Read more

New booklet to help you help your animal!

What is one of the most difficult things for any animal lover and pet parent to hear? It’s being told by the vet that your animal’s illness is terminal. What do I do now? How can I best support my animal friend? What is the best way forward for our family? These are just a … Read more

What Does Everyone Love, Want & Need?

cat in blue jingle bell cap

I wanted to create a meaningful and helpful blog post for this holiday season, one that would apply to animals and people. I recalled a post I wrote back in December 2014 when I had my own personal blog. I thought it might be the perfect message for today and every day of the year. Although … Read more

Feel Good When You Purchase with Purpose at the New BrightHaven Store!

We’re so excited to announce that the new BrightHaven Store is now open for business! In it you’ll find these two new fabulous designs created by Blanca Walker, and more.   Many of our wonderful supporters have asked me when we’d have items sporting unique BrightHaven designs available for sale. And that time is NOW–just … Read more

It’s All About Love and Support, and It Starts with You!

Woman with two cats one dog

NEW BRIGHTHAVEN BOOKLET!!! BrightHaven President and Founder Gail Pope is putting the finishing touches on an important booklet called Following Your Heart: Navigating a Terminal Diagnosis. Her wish is to help you walk this often-challenging path with a deeper sense of peace, confidence and clarity. ***UPDATE:  This booklet is now available!*** Buy Follow Your Heart: … Read more

You Can Help BrightHaven Reach for the Stars!

Starry nights design

We’re very excited to share with you how BrightHaven’s work has been helping even more animals!     BrightHaven President and Founder Gail Pope recently recorded a presentation called “Understanding the Animal Dying Experience” for the International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC), the premier industry organization. We’re really proud to say that this … Read more