Meet Alaina Sigler | Ordained Interspecies and Interspiritual Animal Chaplain

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alaina Sigler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alaina, what makes you happy? Why?
I truly believe that joy can be found everywhere I look. Through presence (also known as observation), I can bring myself into a space where I appreciate who and what is around me. The sound of Canadian Geese flying overhead, the brush of a cold breeze against the side of my body, the rustle of the leaves shimmering in the sun, or noticing a yellow jacket sitting on a marigold. Offering a healing presence is the root of who I am as an Animal Chaplain. Using spiritual practice strengthens my ability to empathize with individuals outside of those seeking care for their grief. I can thrive and find joy knowing that happiness is always available. By allowing my emotions when I notice, I can nurture uncertainty by becoming aware of my needs and offering grace and gratitude. 

All right, so let’s jump right in! The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love, and encouragement of others. So is there a person, group, organization, book, etc that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?

I am truly honored and grateful for the support, love, and encouragement of numerous individuals who have guided me on this journey. I would like to recognize my family, including my partner Dylan, Meeka the dog, and Jasmine, Rose, and Eclipse (all rescued individuals). The lessons they have taught me and ongoing encouragement are moments that bring me joy and hope. Meeka reminds me to slow down, Eclipse reminds me when it is time to get away from my computer, and Jasmine shares space with me while I meditate. My dad has offered a helping hand with the technical side of owning a small business, asked questions to understand my journey as an Animal Chaplain, and deeply listened when I was overwhelmed, celebrating, and so much more.

I also have immense gratitude for my friends and fellow animal advocates whom I had the pleasure of volunteering with for the past decade and the rescued individuals at Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary in Erie. Felix, a resident who is a pig, brings me back to my connection with all beings. Felix’s loving presence offers hope every time I see him at the sanctuary. All the animals I encountered directly or indirectly brought me to where I am today and led me to become an Animal Chaplain. This journey is, and will forever be, for the two-legged, four-legged, finned, scaled, feathered, furry, and all other individuals. I am deeply honored to be on this wonderous and precious planet with all beings, regardless of their species. You are and will always have the most special place in my heart.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, and what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? 

My journey of becoming an Animal Chaplain started when I needed a shift in my life. I’ve been burnt out and experienced compassion fatigue many times over the years and sinking into caring deeply for myself and others was the path that I felt called to. Moving away from compassion fatigue isn’t easy and so many others across numerous professions experience the same thing every day. Veterinarians, animal rescue workers, animal care staff, advocates, and more are the individuals who may find their work physically, emotionally, mentally, and perhaps spiritually exhausting. To transform my compassion fatigue, and support others in doing the same, I later learned that my inspiration was all around me.

As someone who grew up with animals in their home, I had a connection with them, but it isn’t through the lens that I see someone today who is of another species. One lesson I learned along the way, as taught by my Animal Reiki instructor Kathleen Prasad, is to see the perfection of an animal. No matter what I experience, I can use my breath to find peace. This settles the stress, anxiety, and sense of being overwhelmed which can transform into compassion fatigue.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week-long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc? In your view what are some of the most fun, interesting, exciting people, places, or things to check out?

My friend and I would head to one of the locally farmed animal sanctuaries. At Luvin Arms, we could visit with the rescued farmed animals during one of their amazing tours! After Luvin Arms, we’d go to Denver to eat delicious food at Wellness Sushi. Wellness Sushi is known for its sustainable plant-based cuisine, and especially, its wonderful sushi rolls and ramen.

On day two, my friend and I could hike in Boulder at Chautauqua Trailhead. After the hike, my friend and I would head to Thrive in North Boulder. Given the wonderful atmosphere and delicious raw vegan food, it is my go-to every time I go to Boulder! To finish off the day, we’d visit a meetup event hosted by Pro-Animal Future in Denver.

Website: https://thenightskygarden.org

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaina-sigler