Get to know us
What is an Animal Chaplain?
Who we work with
Animal chaplains support all sentient beings, regardless of their species or their belief system.
We work with healthy living animals, injured or ill animals, dying animals, and humans who love animals—whether those are “pet” cats or dogs, local wildlife, sanctuary or shelter animals, or at-risk species.
We offer well-being resources, spiritual guidance, support, and community fellowship to Vegans, Vegetarians, animal rights activists, animal lovers, and all humans who care about and advocate for animals and the planet.
Why we do what we do
An animal chaplain offers spiritual and emotional support for people and animals, helping individuals navigate the deep connections they share with their pets and other animals. They offer guidance and comfort during pet loss, illness, and other transitions, helping individuals process grief and connect with their pets on a deeper, spiritual level, and honour the bond between humans and animals.
Rooted in compassion, animal chaplains advocate for animal welfare and help people understand the spiritual significance of their relationships with animals.
What we do
Our Services
Introductory phone call free | Counsel $55+/hr | Personalized ceremony $120+ | Sacred Sendoff Ceremony $75 | In-person Euthanasia support $100
sliding scale and PWYC available
financial stress should not be a barrier when care is needed
Services can be held online or in-person (within the Comox Valley area)
CONTACT US to begin the planning process.
Blessing Ceremonies
Conducting rituals to bless animals for protection, healing, or general well-being, often used for newly adopted pets or animals facing health challenges.
End-of-Life Care
Providing emotional and spiritual support to pet owners and animals during the end-of-life process, including counseling, creating peaceful environments, and offering comfort.
Memorial Services
Organizing Sacred Sendoff ceremonies to honour and celebrate the life of a deceased pet, helping owners find closure and healing through personalized tributes and rituals.
Grief Counseling
Offering support to individuals or families coping with the loss of a beloved pet, helping them process their emotions and navigate the grieving process.
Animal Advocacy and Education
Promoting animal welfare through outreach and education, helping people develop deeper connections with animals and understand their needs.
Pet Caregiver Support
Providing guidance and spiritual care to pet owners during challenging times, such as illness, behavioral issues, or major life changes affecting their pets.
Rituals for Healing or Transitions
Creating and leading ceremonies for various transitions in a pet’s life, such as welcoming a new animal into the family or recovering from trauma or illness.
Rituals for renewal and Support
Organizing healing rituals to honour the work of vet staff and animal rescuers, offering spiritual renewal and reflective practices to release emotional burdens and prevent compassion fatigue.
What Drives Us
Our Mission
At Kindred Paths Animal Chaplaincy, our mission is to serve as a compassionate bridge between humans and animals, providing spiritual care that honors their deep bond. Through personalized rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual companionship, we nurture this connection and celebrate the lives of all creatures with love and respect.
On the blessings of Oneness. A contemplation.
by Animal Chaplain Julie Matson
An Elegy for lost species and habitat.
by Animal Chaplain Julie Matson
About me
Animal Chaplian Julie
As an ordained animal chaplain, I am committed to offering compassionate support for the unique bond between humans and animals. My journey began with training and ordainship through Compassion Consortium, where I learned to honour the spiritual connections that exist within our relationships with animals.
I believe animals bring profound joy and healing, and I am committed to guiding individuals and families through life’s transitions with their beloved companions. Whether offering comfort during a pet’s loss or celebrating milestones, I strive to foster understanding and connection during these deeply emotional moments.
My focus on empathy and respect allows me to create safe spaces for people to share their stories, find solace, and celebrate the joy that animals bring to our lives.
Testimonials
Honouring animal lives, healing human hearts
M.Z.
Thank you again for your thoughts and words. Chloe passed peacefully in my arms in our favourite chair.
Sophia B.
Chaplain Julie's empathy and compassionate understanding helped me with the passing of my dear cat Sadie. Chaplain Julie fosters a safe environment to be honest with my grief, and radiates support and acknowledgment.
Melissa W.
Thank you Chaplain Julie. You helped ease the pain of losing our beloved Brody. Your gentleness and understanding gave us so much comfort. We will mourn him forever but your help with his transition has eased our household. When I'm feeling lost without him I think of your ceremony and your words. Thank you again.
Ana G.
After our beloved senior dogs passing, Chaplain Julie helped our little family adjust to our new household dynamic. Our dog, Mister, was happy to be acknowledged and to take on his new role as dog of the house. We were all grateful to have some guidance at such a sad time for us. Thank you Chaplain Julie.