Founder’s Message
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I’m grateful that you’ve found your way to the American Association of Veterinary Chaplains (AAVChap). This organization was born out of a deep recognition that the relationships we have with our animal companions—and with those who care for them—are profoundly emotional and spiritual. It’s a belief I’ve carried with me throughout my journey as a chaplain, and it has shaped the vision of what AAVChap is today.
Veterinary chaplaincy has a unique role in supporting not just the clients and their animal companions, but also the veterinary healthcare teams who work tirelessly to provide care. At AAVChap, we recognize that this care extends beyond traditional veterinary practices and includes shelter workers, rescue workers, pet sitters, and caregivers from all walks of life. These dedicated individuals play a crucial role in the well-being of animals, and they, too, are part of the communities we aim to support.
AAVChap is a place where chaplains and caregivers can come together, develop their skills, and make meaningful contributions to these communities of care. We believe in the power of compassionate support, and we know that by working together, we can make a difference for everyone involved in the care of animals.
As you explore our site, I invite you to learn more about our mission, engage with the resources we offer, and consider joining us on this journey. Together, we are building a future where emotional and spiritual care are an essential part of veterinary and animal caregiving.
Thank you for being here.
Warm regards,
Scott Campbell, Founder
American Association of Veterinary Chaplains (AAVChap)
Mission Statement
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission
To empower veterinary chaplains to compassionately support the human-animal bond through education, advocacy, and community building.
Vision
We envision a world where the human-animal bond is strengthened and supported through compassionate and inclusive chaplaincy care.
Values
COMPASSION
Committing to fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and care towards individuals and communities touched by the human-animal bond.
INCLUSIVITY
Embracing diversity and recognizing the inherent value and worth of every individual and their unique contribution to the field of veterinary chaplaincy.
PROFESSIONALISM
Exemplifying unwavering professionalism, upholding respect, reliability, and excellence in all our endeavors.
COLLABORATION
Partnering with diverse organizations, institutions, and stakeholders to promote unity and shared goals in advancing veterinary chaplaincy.
Our Origins
The History of AAVChap
The American Association of Veterinary Chaplains (AAVChap) was founded on the belief that veterinary care extends beyond medical treatment. The emotional and spiritual connections between humans and their animal companions, alongside the well-being of veterinary healthcare teams, reveal a deep need for support in these areas. AAVChap was established to address this need, aiming to create a supportive community for all involved in the care of animals.
The journey toward the creation of AAVChap began in 2017, when Scott Campbell pursued chaplaincy training, drawing from his background as a hypnotherapist. Throughout this process, the emotional and spiritual aspects of care became more apparent, particularly in interactions with veterinary professionals, clients, and animal companions. Recognizing the unique stresses on veterinary teams, AAVChap was designed to broaden the scope of veterinary chaplaincy, addressing not only client grief and loss but also the needs of patients (animal companions) and the healthcare teams who care for them.
With a focus on these three core communities—clients, patients, and healthcare teams—AAVChap continues to evolve. The organization is committed to supporting not only those within traditional veterinary settings but also other animal care professionals, such as shelter and rescue workers, whose roles are vital to the broader animal care network. As the field of veterinary chaplaincy grows, AAVChap seeks to explore and expand its reach to meet the diverse emotional and spiritual needs of all those who work with animals.
AAVChap’s mission is to bridge the gap between emotional, spiritual, and veterinary care. Whether offering support to those grieving the loss of an animal, navigating difficult medical decisions, or seeking emotional care as caregivers, AAVChap is dedicated to providing compassionate support for all. The road to this point has been one of discovery, growth, and dedication, and the organization stands committed to addressing the heart and spirit in veterinary care.
Our Guidance
Code of Ethics
Review our Code of Ethics here
