About The Pet Loss Support Text Line

Recognizing that pet loss is often overlooked as a source of grief and distress, The Pet Loss Support Text Line was founded in late 2025 by Kayel Carroll, a Buddhist/interfaith chaplain specializing in animal chaplaincy.

A graduate of Upaya Zen Center’s Buddhist Chaplaincy Training program, Kayel’s capstone project focused on pet grief. Deeply inspired by their own experiences in the intense hospice care and eventual loss of their cat, Thor, Kayel has worked to bring more support to the world of pet loss.

After spending time volunteering with another support text line, Kayel recognized how special it was for anyone at any time to be able to simply pick up their phone and know someone on the other end wanted to listen.

The Pet Loss Support Text Line is intended to offer free, specialized support for those who are grieving pet loss, dealing with anticipatory grief, caring for pets in hospice or with chronic conditions, as well as other difficulties that pet caretakers go through. Veterinary staff also face a lot of these same challenges and this is intended to be a support for them as well.

In loving memory of Thor.
2003-2021

The Text Line Roadmap

Since its founding, the goal of The Pet Loss Support Text Line has been to offer heartfelt and accessible support to those grieving their pets. To do so, there have been two main goals: non-profit status and expansion.

• Apply for non-profit status

• Expand support hours

• Expand support staff

• Spread the word online and through supplying veterinary offices, hospitals, and crematoriums with Text Line resources

• Offer support groups

• Expand to more resources

This short list is just the beginning for the Text Line. Your donations don’t just help the Text Line operate and expand, but they also make a difference in the lives of every person who reaches out.

Help make the roadmap a reality with a donation. Your support is appreciated!