In this heartfelt year-end episode, Gail Pope and Karen Wylie pause to reflect on what they've learned from a year of conversations with pet parents caring for aging and ill animals. This isn't about getting everything right—it's about being present, trusting what you see, and remembering you're not alone on this journey.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The power of community and why finding kindred spirits matters so much when caring for aging or ill pets


• Why "letting go" of the need to fix everything can actually help you make better decisions for your pet


• How to trust what you're seeing in your pet, even when it's not what you want to see


• The difference between focusing on curing versus focusing on comfort, connection, and quality of life


• Why grief is really love—and how sharing it helps both you and others


• What it means to stay present with your pet through all the hard moments

Key Takeaways: Gail and Karen share personal insights about how their own learning has deepened this year through direct conversations with pet parents in their Caregivers Membership Hub and weekly Cuppa and Conversation gatherings. Gail opens up about her journey with grief after losing beloved animals Purrci and Andy, and why she's learned that grief never really goes away—because it's the love we still want to express.

🐾Whether your pet has just received a life-changing diagnosis or you're deep into hospice care, this conversation offers practical guidance for creating an environment where your pet can live comfortably for as long as possible.💜

📌 Related Resource: 

• The LIVING Quality of Life Care Assessment PDF
  
  
  
  
  
  • https://brightpathforpets.com/resources-html/#LivingQOL
  
  
  
  


• Peace of Mind for Pet Parents Episode 030: "When We Becomes Me: Navigating Life When Your Pet Family Becomes One"
  
  
  
  • https://brightpathforpets.com/blog/peace-of-mind-for-pet-parents-episode-030-navigating-life-when-your-pet-family-becomes-one/
  
  
  
  

🌹 Join our monthly Rose Ceremony (free online pet celebration): https://brightpathforpets.com/rose-ceremony/

💬 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 🐶⭐🐱

📌About the Hosts:

💜 Karen Wylie, EdD is Executive Director of Animal Hospice Group and Co-Founder of BrightHaven Caregiver Academy. She specializes in caregiver education and emotional support for pet parents navigating chronic illness, hospice, and end-of-life care.

💜 Gail Pope is Founder and President of BrightHaven, a nonprofit animal sanctuary and hospice with over 30 years of experience in holistic care and natural passing. She is internationally recognized for her pioneering work in animal hospice care.

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. We are not veterinarians. While we do not provide medical diagnoses or treatments, we are experienced holistic caregivers. Our support focuses on helping you assess the situation, understand your options, and find clarity and calm in the middle of distress.