Though not always overt, faith is central to many animal chaplains' practices. Some provide spiritual care for animals themselves, holding animal blessing events, praying for pets or being a grounding presence during euthanasia. It's not just pets and their owners who require spiritual support.

Depending on the employer, a hospital chaplain must hold at least an undergraduate degree in a religious studies or counseling field. The process may take 4-6 years, in addition to completion of post-graduate clinical pastoral education credits and certification through one of the national chaplain organizations.

The MS in Chaplaincy program is a professional degree that prepares students for ministry as chaplains. It combines foundational theological knowledge with specialty training and clinical experience.