Welcome to BrightHaven

Compassionate Animal Care for Life and Beyond

BH Sanctuary

For more than 30 years, BrightHaven served as a sanctuary, a school, and a voice for animals in need of healing, comfort, and peace.

We are a nonprofit organization that champions holistic care, hospice-supported natural dying, and meaningful support for both animals and the humans who love them.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just discovering us, you’re invited to explore our heart-centered approach to animal wellness—rooted in dignity, love, and connection.

Who We Are

Gail & Richard Pope with Joey

BrightHaven began as a rescue and healing center for senior, disabled, and chronically ill animals. Over time, our mission expanded to include caregiver education, hospice consulting, and advocacy for a natural approach to aging and dying. Today, our focus is on preserving this wisdom, sharing it freely, and offering compassionate resources to pet parents and professionals alike. 

What We Offer

Side view of young focused ethnic female student sitting on comfortable sofa and caressing cat while doing homework assignment using laptop in cozy living room

Free Guides & Articles

Learn about holistic healing, end-of-life care, and emotional preparation.

BCA Podcast Logo

Podcast & Videos

Tune into real stories, expert interviews, and spiritual reflections on caregiving and loss.

a funny photo of a cat eating a bunch of noodles

Animal Stories

Meet the animals who have shaped our path—and those continuing to inspire us.

women in white t-shirts hugging white dog

Caregiver Support

Navigating life with your aging or ill pets with tools and insights to bring you peace of mind.

Volunteers for BrightHaven outside with animals

BrightHaven Family of Programs

Explore our partnerships and community-based programs for pet parents and professionals.

Our Legacy Lives On

Founded in 1990, BrightHaven began as a traditional rescue and quickly became a sanctuary for the elderly, special needs and ailing pets. Over the next three decades, founders Gail and Richard Pope, along with their devoted team, cared for hundreds of animals through holistic therapies and natural end-of-life transitions.

Although the physical sanctuary closed in 2018, our mission lives on through education, remembrance, and a commitment to honoring animals through every stage of life. Learn how our founder, Gail Pope, helped more than 700 animals live and die with love—and how that legacy continues today.

How You Can Support

BrightHaven continues its work through the kindness of donors, volunteers, and friends. Every gift helps us create more free educational tools, preserve our historical archives, and reach more people with our message of healing and hope.

Begin Your Journey

Contact us today for compassionate support and guidance throughout your pet's life journey.