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Current
Research Studies

The Animal Chaplaincy Research team is conducting concurrent research in partnership with two academic institutions. The first study, based at Chicago Theological Seminary, examines the emerging field of interspecies chaplaincy, in which chaplains facilitate well-being and spiritual care for animal guardians, animal-centric professionals, and animals themselves. The second study, conducted with Canisius University’s Animal Behavior, Conservation, Ecology, and Anthrozoology Department, explores the well-being, spiritual, and religious practices animal-care professionals use to cope with occupational stress, moral distress, and burnout within their vocations. Together, these studies are intentionally designed to inform one another, allowing the research team to integrate insights about care needs and care practices in order to more thoughtfully align interspecies chaplaincy interventions with the lived realities of those who work closely with animals.

 

Canisius University Institutional Review Board #IRB 2025-26-12

Chicago Theological Seminary Institutional Review Board 10/2025​

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GET MORE INFO OR PARTICIPATE IN THE STUDY: Contact the research team using the form below.

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Yes, I want to receive updated on a research study after its conclusion.

Research Study 1: (Chicago Theological Seminary IRB) This research study with is mapping the emerging field of interspecies chaplaincy (pet chaplaincy, veterinary chaplaincy, animal chaplaincy) by surveying active practioners and chaplaincy educators.

 

Research Study 2: (Canisius University IRB) This research study explores how people working with (or advocating for) animals experience stress and utilize personal well-being and spiritual practices for support.

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By providing your email address and location country below, you acknowledge you would like to receive more information about the research findings once the study is concluded.

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Only the research team (and this platform) will have access to your email address. Your email will not be sold to any third-parties.

Which study are you interested in?
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