Helping to Heal

The Door County Humane Society (DCHS) enters a new stage of community outreach with the addition of a shelter chaplain as well as quarterly discussions about pet loss and bereavement.

A non-denominational “Circle of Compassion” for people seeking to heal from the loss of a furry family member will be the first of several programs offered under the banner of DCHS Chaplaincy Services. Scheduled to meet quarterly, the discussion groups will be an empathetic gathering for any pet lover. There is no cost. The initial “Circle of Compassion” is scheduled for July 17, 7 – 8:30 pm, in the Outreach Room of the Door County Humane Society at 3475 County Road PD, Sturgeon Bay.

Other services to be offered through the DCHS Chaplaincy program include individual prayer and spiritual support for people whose pets have been diagnosed with terminal issues; pastoral care and comfort at the time of a pet’s passing or euthanasia; and an annual blessing of the pets, along with individualized pet blessings when requested.

The first blessing of the pets is scheduled for Aug. 23 at 9:45 am, as part of the annual Bark by the Bay Pet Walk event. Retired pastor and professor Bruce H. Joffe has agreed to serve as the DCHS chaplain. Pastor Joffe has established a Facebook page “Pet Chaplain” dedicated to ministering to the spirits and souls and people and their pets. For more information or to register, contact DCHS Program Director Nancy Fisher at 920.746.1111 or [email protected].