Our Mission
BrightHaven is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people help animals. We provide education, resources, and compassionate guidance to support pet parents and animal care professionals in caring for aging, chronically ill, and special needs animals — with particular emphasis on holistic care, quality of life, and the option of a natural, supported death.
Our mission is rooted in more than 35 years of hands-on sanctuary experience and the belief that every stage of life — including the dying process — has meaning, dignity, and value.
Welcome to BrightHaven — where love, wisdom, and compassionate care continue to shape the way we support animals through all stages of life. Founded by Gail and the late Richard Pope, BrightHaven has evolved from a pioneering sanctuary into a global source of inspiration, information, and education for those who care deeply about aging, ill, and special-needs animals.
While our physical sanctuary has closed, our mission lives on — now focused on sharing the holistic practices and end-of-life expertise that have defined our legacy.
BrightHaven is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people help animals—particularly those who are aging, disabled, chronically ill, or nearing the end of life. For over 30 years, BrightHaven was known as a beloved animal sanctuary in Northern California that saved and supported more than 1,000 animals with complex medical needs. Although our sanctuary closed in 2018 to support the long-term financial health of our organization, BrightHaven’s legacy of love and learning continues through our education and rescue programs.
Today, BrightHaven is focused on two core areas:
1. Education
BrightHaven is a leader in the fields of animal hospice, natural death, and holistic healthcare
We share the wisdom gained through decades of sanctuary caregiving and hundreds of hospice-supported natural transitions. Our educational offerings provide hope and support to both pet parents and animal care professionals seeking guidance on aging, illness, and end-of-life care.
At the heart of our educational work are two sister programs that carry the BrightHaven legacy forward in distinct ways. The BrightHaven Caregiver Academy (BCA) was created specifically for pet parents — those who are walking the tender path of caring for aging, chronically ill, or terminally diagnosed animal companions.
Through accessible guides, podcasts, short courses, and a supportive membership community, BCA offers practical, emotional, and spiritual tools to help families navigate this journey with peace of mind. Meanwhile, the Animal Hospice Group (AHG) offers a more advanced curriculum for veterinary professionals and pet care practitioners, including massage therapists, animal chaplains, Reiki practitioners, and pet sitters. AHG’s comprehensive certification program provides the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to support animals and their families at end of life.
Whether you are a loving pet parent facing difficult decisions, or a practitioner seeking new skills, BrightHaven is here to help you navigate this journey with compassion, courage, and care.
2. Rescue
Our small, volunteer-led rescue program continues to save senior and special needs cats from shelters in Northern California. These are often animals who are at high risk of euthanasia due to age or medical concerns. We specialize in medical rehabilitation and foster-based placement, ensuring each animal receives the care and love they deserve in their final chapter.
What Makes BrightHaven Unique
A 30+ year history of animal care rooted in holistic philosophy
One of the only U.S. organizations to specialize in hospice-supported natural dying for animals
Our proprietary "Menu for Healing" developed through hands-on experience with over 700 natural deaths
A deep commitment to honoring animals as sentient beings and wise teachers
Help Us Continue the Legacy
BrightHaven’s work has touched the lives of thousands of animals and people over the past three decades — and now we’re focused on sharing that wisdom far and wide. You can help ensure that Gail Pope’s legacy and BrightHaven’s message of compassionate, holistic care continues to inspire future generations.
Here’s how you can get involved:
- Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates, caregiver tips, and new free resources
- Explore our blog and educational offerings to learn from our experiences
- Make a donation to support our ongoing rescue and education programs
- Share BrightHaven with someone who is caring for an aging or ill pet
- Download our free resources and start learning today
Explore BrightHaven’s Educational Resources
At BrightHaven, knowledge reduces fear. We believe that learning about your options can ease anxiety and help pet parents make thoughtful decisions for the animals they love.
Educational resources
Articles and guides on animal hospice, holistic care, and compassionate support for pets with chronic or serious illness.
Personal Guidance with Gail Pope
Learn more about opportunities to connect with BrightHaven’s founder for individual guidance and support.
Courses and Educational Publications
Explore BrightHaven’s learning materials and free downloadable resources.