Author: Marjorie Lewis

What Summer Activities Should I Do With My Dog?

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date June 29, 2023

Summer is in full swing, and that means that most of us are spending more time outside. On the East Coast, it’s been an especially mild winter, spring, and summer so far, which has allowed us to enjoy mild temperatures that don’t come with many risks for our animal’s well-being. We’re sure to have more intense temperatures as the summer progresses, so here are some fun summer activities you can do with your dog and some things to consider while doing them.

Summer Dog-Friendly Activity Ideas

Go for a Swim: If your dog enjoys the water and is a competent swimmer, take them to a dog-friendly beach, lake, or pool for a refreshing swim. If you just rescued your dog and aren’t sure whether he can swim or not, allow them to watch other dogs in the water and provide them with a shallow area to test out the water in. Make sure to prioritize their safety and supervise them at all times.
Play Fetch: Find a spacious area, such as a park or backyard, and play a game of fetch with your dog. Use a frisbee, tennis ball, or any other suitable toy your dog enjoys retrieving.
Take Hikes or Nature Walks: Explore nature together by going on hikes or leisurely walks on nature trails. Choose trails that are dog-friendly and offer shade or bodies of water for your dog to cool down.
Have a Picnic: Pack a dog-friendly picnic and head to a park. Enjoy some outdoor time together while you and your pup indulge in some tasty treats. Remember to bring dog-safe food and plenty of water.
Arrange Playdates: If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, organize playdates with their doggy friends. This can be a great opportunity for them to socialize, exercise, and have a blast.
Try Agility Training: Set up an agility course in your backyard using items like tunnels, jumps, and weave poles. This activity promotes physical exercise and mental stimulation and strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Go on Car Rides: Take your dog on short car rides to explore new areas or visit dog-friendly establishments. Ensure their safety by using appropriate restraints or carriers while traveling.
Play in a Sprinkler or Dog Pool: Set up a sprinkler in your backyard or provide a small dog pool for your pup to splash around in. Many dogs enjoy the sensation of water, and it’s a great way for them to cool down on hot days.
Teach New Tricks: Summer can be a good time to work on training and teaching your dog new tricks. Use positive reinforcement techniques and make it a fun and rewarding experience for both of you.
Attend Dog-Friendly Events: Check for dog-friendly events happening in your community, such as outdoor markets, fairs, or dog-friendly festivals. These events often include activities and opportunities for socialization.

What to Consider During Summer Activities

While there are a plethora of activities to do with your dog this summer, you should keep these things in mind:

Consider your dog’s breed, age, and health when choosing activities. Always prioritize their safety, provide plenty of water and shade, and be mindful of the temperature to prevent overheating.
Ask them what their preference is. Before you indulge in all the summer activities, consider using an animal communicator to help you identify what activities your dog prefers. For example, you may ask: do you prefer to chew on a bone inside with cool air? Or do you prefer to splash in the dog pool?
If your dog hasn’t had the experience before, they can’t tell you if they prefer it. Therefore, you may have to test things out. If you’re unsure if they have or not, assume they haven’t.
If you’re planning a vacation, make sure that it is one that fits the entire family…including your furry loved ones.
Plan ahead for different activities. For example, if your dog loves to go outside and run, take them in the morning and not during the hottest part of the day.
Use common sense for things that could jeopardize your dog’s safety. For instance, you wouldn’t want to give your dog the choice of going to the beach if you’re going to be out there all day. The sun and hot sand could be detrimental to your dog.

No matter what you decide to do, it’s important to take the time to enjoy your time with family, friends, and your pet. Summer is a great time for connecting and doing activities that aren’t always available to us, so be safe and have fun!

9 Important Independence Day Tips for Pet Owners and Non-Pet Owners

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date June 29, 2023

Protecting animals from fireworks is crucial during celebrations like New Year’s Eve, Independence Day, or any other events involving fireworks. With Independence Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we’re in for several nights of celebration by those around you. This means that not only do we need to be mindful of our pet’s safety on July 4th, but we also need to be mindful days before and after. The loud noises, bright lights, and sudden bursts can cause extreme stress and anxiety for animals, leading to panic, injuries, or even escape attempts.

Here are some steps you can take to help protect animals from fireworks:

Keep animals indoors: The best way to ensure the safety of your pets is to keep them inside your home during firework displays. Close all windows, curtains, and doors to minimize noise and block out the flashes of light. Provide a safe and comfortable area for them, such as a cozy room or their crate, where they feel secure.
Create a calming environment: Reduce the impact of fireworks by creating a calm and familiar environment for your pets. Play soothing music or turn on the TV to drown out the noise. Use white noise machines or calming pheromone diffusers specifically designed for pets to help create a peaceful atmosphere.
Stay with your pets: If possible, stay home with your animals during fireworks displays. Your presence and reassurance can provide comfort and alleviate anxiety. Avoid leaving them alone, as their panic may lead to destructive behavior or escape attempts.
Provide a safe space: Make sure your pets have a safe place to go if they feel scared. This could be a familiar room or their crate, equipped with their favorite bedding, toys, and treats. Creating a den-like environment can help them feel protected and minimize their stress.
Use positive distractions: Engage your pets in activities or playtime before the fireworks begin to tire them out. Offer interactive toys or treat-dispensing puzzles to keep them occupied and redirect their focus away from the noise and lights. Mental stimulation can help alleviate anxiety.
ID tags and microchips: Ensure that your pets are wearing identification tags with updated contact information. If they manage to escape or become lost, this will increase the chances of a safe return. Additionally, consider microchipping your pets and keeping the registration details up to date.
Consult a veterinarian: If your pet has an extreme fear of fireworks, consult a veterinarian. They may recommend various options, including anxiety-reducing medications, natural remedies, or behavioral training techniques to help your pet cope with the stress.
Inform neighbors: If you know in advance about upcoming fireworks displays, inform your neighbors about the potential impact on pets. This can encourage them to be mindful and take precautions as well.
Inform authorities: Contact local authorities or event organizers to advocate for quieter or alternative fireworks displays that are less distressing to animals. You may even want to educate yourself about the effects that fireworks have on wildlife and domestic animals so that you can be more persuasive. For instance, the combination of deep percussion and vibration hinders a bird’s navigation abilities. Additionally, SFGate reported on studies that showed that birds leave their nests when fireworks explode, which leaves their eggs vulnerable to predators. As a result of these findings, some towns have banned traditional fireworks displays.

By following these measures, you can help protect animals from the anxiety and stress caused by fireworks. Remember to be patient and understanding, as each animal may respond differently. Your care and attention will go a long way in ensuring their well-being during these festive occasions.

Animal Communicator Horses

How Does My Energy Affect My Animal?

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date June 1, 2023

In our everyday lives, we humans tend to think of ourselves as quite different from the animals we call our pets. In fact, we are all made up of the same materials and are very closely related when you look at the details of our DNA. Despite our differences, all Beings are made of energy. This life force, or electromagnetic field is the thing that causes all of us to be Alive and to recognize this energy in one another.

Energy as a Guide

Animals of all types instinctively rely on their senses to assess their surroundings and survive in their environments. They use their sight, smell, and hearing of course, but also a sense of “feel” that allows them to sense changes in energy around them. Bats sense energy fields in order to navigate and hunt. Birds sense the earth’s magnetic field to guide their migration. Dogs are being used in medical science to locate and diagnose diseases using their senses.

Changes In Our Bodies

Modern science is able to measure the various changes that take place in our bodies as we experience emotions, thoughts, and physical activities. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of physiological changes, occur moment by moment, such as when our body temperature changes and brain waves fluctuate in frequency. Our bodies release chemicals and hormones into our bloodstream as our emotions change. Blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, and pupil dilation are constantly changing as well.

One very important fact worth noting is that all of these physiological changes take place in our bodies when we have an experience AND ALSO when we IMAGINE an experience. The animals in our vicinity have no way of distinguishing our physical danger signals as real and current or as fear we are remembering from past experiences or anticipate happening. Their response will be the same in both cases – they will believe we are in danger.

Our pets are able to sense these changes in much more detail and more accurately than we can ourselves. Anyone that spends time around companion animals has seen how they respond when we are sad or stressed. Horses are able to sense the human heartbeat from 4 feet away, this gives them information about us before we even approach. It is said that they can “feel our fear” and in truth, they can. Additionally, horses in a herd tend to synchronize their heartbeats so when one senses danger, they all know instantly.

This type of highly attuned sensitivity has served animals well throughout their evolution and increased their ability to survive. In today’s modern society, however, sensitivity can have both its pros and cons for a companion animal.

Pros

They feel safe and reassured when their people are “broadcasting” relaxed energy signals
Animals are able to sense wellness and illness in the people they meet
Anger and fear energy from a person signals an animal to be wary and cautious
Dogs learn to respond instantly in training exercises based on the energy we broadcast, even before we can speak a command
In some cases, a person’s energy helps a dog to distinguish between friend and foe
A horse is able to adjust his speed and energy output using the rider’s signals as guidance

Cons

Misunderstandings can frequently occur when an animal reads our energy but chooses an inappropriate response
Animals can suffer from hyper-sensitivity in a world filled with sensory stimuli
Humans unconsciously broadcast inaccurate information to their pets and the pet is left wondering how to respond, creating anxiety and a lack of self-confidence
Humans tend to dwell on remembered events and imagined events that carry their own energy pattern, and a pet cannot distinguish which thoughts are real and which he should be responding to

Our companion animals come to know us quite well by our voice, personal scent, stance, and facial expressions. They also become familiar with and “evaluate” us by the energy that we “broadcast”.

When we become aware of all the ways that our energy can affect animals, we can begin to intentionally think, imagine, visualize, focus, and act in ways that accurately lead and guide our pets to desired behaviors rather than misleading them into undesired behavior. Anxiously worrying about an upcoming event only makes them anxious. A relaxed posture and slow deep breaths can quickly signal to our pet that we are safe. We can consciously become their confident leader and broadcast information in the form of energy that our pets can accurately use to choose the right response in any given situation.

Animal Communicator

Is Your Animal Mourning?

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date June 1, 2023

Recall a time when you lost a pet or loved one. Do all the emotions come flooding back to you? We’ve known that people go through a range of emotional and physical feelings of grief after a loss whether this loss was of a human family member or a beloved pet. Did you know that it was long believed that humans were the only ones that mourned the loss of a loved one? Many animal lovers have reported seeing the symptoms of mourning in their family pets, but it was often questioned if humans were projecting our feelings onto them or if animals truly experience a mourning period after a loss.

Believe it or not, there is human mourning and there is also animal mourning. Mourning the loss of a loved one can be a complex and very individually unique process. Each person, or animal, will go through this process in their own way. Some may display their feelings openly and others will keep the feelings held quietly inside. Therefore, it can be quite difficult to tell when an individual or animal is in a state of mourning.

What Mourning Looks Like

Current research is now confirming that many animal species do recognize the death of a family member or companion and exhibit signs of mourning their loss. These species include dogs, horses, elephants, giraffes, monkeys, and dolphins.

Elephants, in particular, have been recognized to have similar mourning behavior to humans. They cry real tears and cry out in distress at the loss of a family member. They pay homage to their deceased friend, standing vigil over the body, touching it tenderly, protecting it from harm and even burying the remains. The empathy that elephants have for loved ones even brings them to visit the skeletal remains of herd members years after their death.

Horses also have been known to gather around the body of a family member to hold vigil and show signs of sadness for a deceased herd member.

Behavioral Changes in Animals After Loss

For both humans and animals, grief is the result of feeling love and happiness from connection with another creature and then losing that beloved one. Companion animals feel this loss for both their human family and also for the other animals they love.

The ASPCA says that over 60% of pets experience four or more behavioral changes after losing a companion. These symptoms might include:

Unusual vocalization
Loss of appetite
Withdrawal from household activities
Lower energy levels
Heightened anxiety or restlessness
Searching for the lost loved one
Sleeping more
Unusual aggressive or destructive behavior
Inappropriate elimination in the home
Separation anxiety

Animals may experience many of these symptoms or none of them. Each individual displays their grief in their own way based on their feelings and relationship with the deceased. A dog may even go through the mourning process for a companion that has not died but simply moved away.

There seems to be some controversy about the level to which animals can understand the process and permanence of death. Some scientists believe that dogs experience grief and loss in a way similar to a 5-year-old child mourning the loss of a companion but not understanding that it is permanent.

When humans are separated from their loved ones they experience the sadness and depression associated with loss whether the loved one has died or simply moved far away. It may be a similar process for animals. They may believe themselves to be alone, their friend is gone and therefore they grieve. The process of mourning and the associated feelings seem to be the same in any case.

My Experience With Loss

In my personal experience, my feelings of sadness and the loss of a beloved pet are very much about being left without them. My physical senses long to touch them and feel their soft coat, to interact and play with them, to feel them sleeping at my feet, and therefore experience the happiness and joy that this companionship brings into my daily life. My personal belief system tells me that the Spirit of my pet survives the loss of the physical body and goes on to “live” in another form. Knowing this brings me joy about their continued existence and yet my grief is very real as I remain here without them.

In my professional experience as an animal communicator, I have had numerous experiences that reinforce my belief that consciousness survives the death of the physical body. On many occasions, a family pet will acknowledge the death and loss of another family pet but reassure us that “he comes back to visit often”. These family pets seem to regret and mourn the separation from their friend yet feel comforted that they are still here in a different form. These animals seem to have a sense of death that is different from our human sense. We tend to feel that death is a final end, a permanent loss of all we knew of our loved ones. The animals have shared that it is more like saying “Bon voyage, I will see you again one day.”

I joyfully look forward to the days that I will be visited again by the Spirit forms of all my beloved and departed pets. This thought helps to ease the pain of my loss and grief.

Helping Your Pet Through the Mourning Process

You can help your family pet to move through their feelings of mourning by gently encouraging them into interaction and play or offering their favorite treats. Guiding them back into connection with others may relieve or distract them from their sadness. Be gentle, never forcing them, but offering opportunities to reconnect when they feel ready to return to their ordinary routines. Time and connection with others are the only true cures for mourning.

Animal Health Dogs

Dog Anxiety Awareness

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date May 1, 2023

Do you have anxiety or have you ever felt anxious? Chances are that you have. Since anxiety is “an overwhelming sense of apprehension and fear often marked by physiological signs”, it’s a pretty common thing. In fact, according to the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 30% of Americans suffer from anxiety in their lifetime. That’s nearly 1 in every 3 people!

Have you ever thought that your dog might have anxiety? Even humans have a hard time identifying their own anxiety, let alone their pets. Imagine being a dog that cannot verbally communicate it or even do anything on its own to reduce it. Since the first week of May is Dog Anxiety Awareness Week, I’d like to share some information with you about how to identify that your dog has anxiety and how to help them with it as well.

Dog Anxiety Signs

Just as with any disorder, there are several signs that can also overlap with other disorders and illnesses. No matter what you expect that your dog may have, it’s a good idea to take note of the symptoms they have and how often they are displaying them. Here are some signs that could indicate that your dog has anxiety that you’ll want to take note of:

Changes in eating habits
Digestive issues such as acid reflux and diarrhea
Hiding or disappearing from view
Displays of fear, such as shaking/trembling
Lashing out unexpectedly
Unusual growling, or showing teeth

Our dogs take cues from our own behavior so relax your muscles, slow and deepen your breath and manage your own anxiety to demonstrate the desired behavior to your dog.

Why do dogs get anxious?

Anxiety can be triggered in dogs by many factors. In some cases, a dog may have a negative association with a common object used by a human such as a hat or walking cane. In many situations, the negative associations can be removed through training with a qualified professional. Big life changes like a new home or introducing a baby, new roommate, or an additional pet to the house can result in anxiety. Sometimes these changes merely require an adjustment period, but in some cases may require training to assist the dog with acclimating to the newness.

In my experience, the most common cause of anxiety with dogs is noise. Loud noises such as fireworks, gunfire, thunder, alarms, and even yelling can cause anxiety. Reactions can range from merely a bark to long periods of distress. Sometimes creating a distraction or replacing the noise with another one can help. Aids that can help reduce anxiety include:

Compression – such as a tight-fitted shirt or wrap similar to swaddling a newborn
Calming music
Running a fan
Diffusing essential oils. Be careful though, not all essential oils are safe for dogs. Some that are safe and commonly used include lemongrass, lavender, and rosemary
Massage
Use a gentle tone with your dog, and do not use a voice they may mistake as praise for their behavior this may only add confusion

Using An Animal Communicator to Reduce Anxiety

Sometimes anxiety happens sporadically, but sometimes it can become a routine issue. An animal communicator can help you to pinpoint the cause of distress. Without knowing the trigger, you may be unknowingly making the situation worse, or better yet the solution may be something simple that never occurred to you. Be proactive and plan for utilizing the above-listed aids when you know there may be an anxiety-inducing event such as July 4^th, an incoming storm, or houseguests. Consult a qualified trainer to help you work through specific reactions. You can be your dog’s greatest advocate by creating a safe environment. Not only will you both be happier, but your bond will also strengthen.

Animal Adoption Dogs

Do-odle or Don’t

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date May 1, 2023

Surely you have heard of the poodle crossbreed craze, Cockadoodle, Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Aussiedoodle, Bernedoodle, Doberdoodle, Dalmadoodle, etc. None of these name combinations are made up by us. Try Googling any dog breed with the word poodle and there’s a good chance that a crossbreed will show up. Have you seen them? They are the cutest little muppet-like cuddlepoos. But what is the huge appeal of these crossbreeds called doodle dogs and what are the risks?

The Poodle

Let’s start with the poodle, a great dog. According to the American Kennel Club, “Whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, and either black, white, or apricot, the Poodle stands proudly among dogdom’s true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, low-allergen coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons.” No wonder people want to use those traits to customize a pet that is perfect for them, but that is exactly the issue.

Why Crossbreed?

You cannot crossbreed and expect customization or the perfect outcome. For example, there is no way to guarantee that another breed crossed with a poodle will result in a hypoallergenic dog. Considering ten to twenty percent of the human population is allergic to pets, that is a trait that is particularly desirable. It likely is the root of the appeal of doodle crossbreeds to begin with, but even purebred poodle promoters will admit that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.

The low allergy tendencies of a doodle mix depend on the percentage of poodle mixed with the percentage of the other breed. The outcome is a bit like DNA roulette unless the breeder is a reputable one that places the integrity of the crossbreed and their own reputation in high regard. A multigenerational doodle cross will have more percentage of poodle, and therefore more tendencies toward being less likely to cause allergy issues. A first generation doodle crossbreed will result in a completely different outcome than a second generation doodle crossbreed. Complicated, yes? This is why finding an experienced breeder you can trust is so important.

Use an Experienced Breeder

Obviously not all breeders are the same. This means that a doodle shopper must do their research! If not, your chance of getting a low allergy crossbreed is the same as adopting a mix from the shelter. That research becomes very important when you realize that the price of a doodle mix ranges from $1,500 – $5,000 and the price of a shelter dog is $50 – $500. It is even more important when you consider the number of shelter dogs needing homes. If a dog found at the shelter is a good fit, then why go with a “designer” crossbreed that may not even have the characteristics you desire in a companion pet.

Common characteristics that people assume can be controlled in crossbreeding

Physical:
- coat quality (low allergy, low maintenance grooming, curly/straight)
- agility
- overall health
Temperament:
- calmness
- intelligence
- trainability

Use a Reputable Breeder

Find a reputable breeder that you can verify through references and contact your veterinarian for suggestions. Investigate your options! If you don’t do your research, you may be unknowingly buying that knockoff Louis Vuitton bag rather than the real deal. Unfortunately, that very issue has resulted in poodle crossbreeds ending up in shelters across the country in high numbers. Not only are the dogs that result from haphazard breeding returned because they are not low allergy, but also because many shed a lot more than a purebred poodle.

If you choose to go with a crossbred or purebred dog, it is up to you to do what is necessary to find the dog that is right for you and a breeder that is responsible, because disregarding a knockoff handbag is completely different than relinquishing a living creature.

This blog was written by Rebecca Gatewood.

Animal Health Dogs

Canine Fitness Activities You’ll Both Love

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date April 6, 2023

With Spring officially here, do you find that you’re not eating so much hearty food and that you’ve started to move more? As the temperature continues to increase and we have more sunny days, you’ll see more runners and walkers out and about, with and without their canine friends. If you have a furry friend, I’d encourage you to incorporate some canine fitness into your own fitness routine as there are many benefits to both.

What is Canine Fitness?

When you think of fitness in general, do you think about just physical fitness or do you have a more holistic thought? Canine fitness, just like human fitness, is more than just being physically fit. It encompasses our mental, emotional, social, and physical well-being. Here is a great blog that breaks down each type.

Canine Fitness Basics

Since physical fitness impacts so many areas of our lives, as well as our pup’s life, it’s important to keep the basics in mind. When it comes to canine fitness, the basic strategy is the same for ourselves and our pups:

Provide a healthy diet
Engage in lots of regular activity
Burn more calories than you eat
Keep moving throughout your life

While these are the basics to keep in mind, it’s also important to take the individual, person, and pup, into consideration. For instance, a husky needs a lot more exercise than a basset hound and of course, a husky with impaired vision may not be doing as much running as a husky with great vision. Just as you take your own personal history and abilities into consideration, be sure to do that for your canine friend, too!

Canine Fitness Activities

When you’re determining what activities to do with your dog, there are several things to consider. Below, I’ve included two to get you started.

Hound Type

Some dogs are sight hounds, some are scent hounds and some are attention hounds. Find out what activities suit you and your pup the best.

Exercise Preference

Find out what type of exercise your dog loves to do. Is he a runner, a sniffer, or a couch potato?

If you’re not sure what your dog likes, working with an animal communicator can help your dog to express his individual needs and preferences.

He might express that he likes:

Taking a long walk sniffing along a nature trail
Running a 5K
Hiking a mountain trail
Dog Sledding
Swimming
Nose work
Obedience
Agility
Dock diving
People watching
Squirrel watching
Frisbee
Fetch

Try something you both love so you both get all of the benefits of it! Remember that no matter what type of physical exercise you choose, you should keep your pup out and active as they age. A dog that engages in age-appropriate exercise will stay healthy longer than one that spends time on the couch.

Canine Fitness for the Mind

Throughout their active years and well into old age, dogs enjoy stimulation for their mind and their senses in addition to physical exercise. Creating ways to engage your dog through enrichment activities that they can enjoy even on a rainy day will make their life feel full. These might include:

Puzzle games
Volunteer therapy work
Hide and seek
Grooming
Chew toys
Bird watching
Visiting friends

The mental and emotional health of our dogs is just as important as their physical health. Allowing outlets for energy helps them to rest better. Allowing them outlets for their curiosity and natural behaviors reduces the risk that they will develop anxiety and unwanted behaviors. Keep them busy? Keep them happy!

Animal Health Pet Resources

Should I Seek Veterinary Care?

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date March 29, 2023

Have you ever woken up one day and started your normal routine only to greet your animal and realize they weren’t themselves? Just like with our children and others we are around often, we can typically tell when something is “off”. Since we can’t talk directly to our pets and have them literally speak back to tell us what’s wrong, we have to start to gather information from the past and present to determine if a trip to the vet is needed. The question of seeking veterinarian care for your pet can be a complex one. There are so many factors that play a part in this decision.

Typically, Yes, You Should Seek Veterinary Care

My quick and basic answer to this question is “Yes”. When a client contacts me and asks if they should call their vet about their pet’s symptoms, my first answer is always “Yes, if you have a concern about symptoms displayed by your pet, you should always seek proper veterinary care appropriate to the condition.”

When making this decision for my own pets, I ask myself, “What is my level of concern?” and “what are the symptoms I am witnessing?” Asking myself these questions first helps me to prioritize my next steps.

For instance, if my cat is experiencing some unusual itching and otherwise seems perfectly normal, my concern level would be low and I would take a common sense, wait-and-watch attitude. If the itching continues after bathing and grooming and then progresses to open sores, I elevate my concern and contact my vet.

However, when my horse suddenly begins exhibiting signs of colic my level of concern is immediately high. I collect the data about vital signs that my vet will need and call them right away.

Let Your Experience Level Inform Your Decision for Veterinary Care

Each individual pet owner must take their own personal experience into consideration when dealing with the health of their pet. New pet owners should rely on their vet to educate and guide them through this learning process.

I personally have years of experience dealing with all types of health conditions in dogs, cats, and horses. I have collected quite a bank of knowledge and experience in assessing symptoms and prioritizing my level of concern. If my dog breaks a toenail, I feel perfectly confident to treat that bleeding at home. That feels well within my skill and experience. If my new Guinea Pig looks “a bit off” I have no skills or experience to guide me, so I call my vet immediately.

My personal motto is, “if in doubt, call the vet”.

Finances Always Play A Part In Seeking Veterinary Care

One of the most difficult parts of this decision is the financial consideration related to veterinary treatment. In this day and age veterinary care has become very expensive. There is no getting around that fact. All too often my clients find themselves having to choose between paying the mortgage and getting the veterinary care that their pet requires. They may have to delay a vet appointment due to a lack of funds for payment. This is not an ideal situation for any pet owner.

I encourage pet owners to purchase pet insurance coverage in order to reduce the stress of this aspect of the decision-making process. I find that pet owners will seek veterinary care more readily if they know that their insurance plan will cover at least part of the cost of treatment. For more information on navigating pet insurance, please visit my recent blog.

Practice Prevention to Reduce Your Need for Veterinary Care

One of the very best ways that a pet owner can avoid the tough question, “do I call the vet”, is to prepare ahead and reduce the chance of the health condition before it becomes a problem. Preventive healthcare maintenance is worth every penny you spend. Your vet can help you determine what your pet needs to stay healthy at any life stage. Some of the key parts of wellness are:

Annual exams by your veterinarian
A healthy diet and regular exercise
Regular grooming
Immunizations and parasite control
Providing a safe environment free of hazards
Careful observation of symptoms of a problem

We all wish for healthy and happy pets. Do your best to support wellness through regular healthcare maintenance and don’t be afraid to rely on your vet to guide you through the inevitable injuries and illnesses that are a part of all pet lovers’ lives.

You can also consider using an animal communicator to help you communicate with your animal about its discomfort and behaviors. Animal communicators can also assist your vet in many ways.

Animal Communicator

Do I Really Need a Pet Communicator Near Me?

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date March 1, 2023

Have you ever been on Google searching for something and you start to type your inquiry only to have Google pretty much complete your thought for you? Pretty scary, huh? Today’s technology can feel a bit eerie, and yet, it’s often unerring. One of the most popular phrases it autocompletes is “near me”, especially when a professional service is being sought. In many instances, this is very helpful since we would typically need someone “near me” if we are seeking a professional such as a plumber, hair stylist, or veterinarian. However, when it comes to partnering with a Professional Animal Communicator, pet people need not seek one located in their neighborhood. There are many choices these days.

Finding a Pet Communicator

If you find yourself in need of a pet communicator to help lend insight into a health or behavior problem with your pet, you don’t need to search “pet psychic near me” or “animal communicator in Maryland”. It would be better to use terms relevant to the problem you are experiencing, with search phrases such as “animal communicator to help with lameness in my horse”, “pet communicator to help with training problems with my dog”, “animal communicator to help my new rescue kitten”, or “pet medical intuitive to help my rabbit”. Technically, these are called long-tailed keywords so Google looks at each of the keywords to help give you better answers. If you were to use all of the search phrases listed above, each one would lead you to a varied list of professionals, each with their own specialty or expertise.

As your search results appear, you will be able to read an excerpt about the webpage results and determine what links you want to click on. When you land on a website, you can then start to look at whether or not you see yourself working with that professional, based on the information they provide.

Location is Not a Factor for All Pet Communicators

When you get to a website, let’s say for a pet communicator, and you see that they are not located in your town or even state, don’t fret! When it comes to animal communication I have found that time zone and distance do not seem to matter. I have worked with cats in Abu Dhabi, elephants in Africa, dogs in the Philippines, horses in the UK, and groundhogs in the USA.

The one limiting factor I’ve found is that the human client and I need to have a common language and that for me, is English. When I communicate with animals, I am also using a common language but not that of spoken English. The animals and I transfer thoughts, feelings, and ideas between us telepathically in the form of mental images, emotions, and physical sensations. This type of “data in energy form” does not seem to be restricted by distance or language. Perhaps it is similar to the way radio stations or TV channels can broadcast across great distances.

Pet Communication Via Phone

Not all pet communications or pet psychics work the same way. Some people prefer to be at the site in person with the animal while communicating. Others request that their clients submit a list of questions that will be answered via email. Most will do a consultation over the phone with the client and that is how I prefer to work.

I have done many consultations in person with my clients and at busy pet fairs but these loud and high-energy environments are not always the best for this type of work. When I am communicating with an animal, I prefer to sit quietly with my eyes closed. I enter a state of deep mental quiet where I begin to receive mental images from the animal. For me, it is like watching a video download in my mind’s eye. Along with the imagery, I receive emotions and physical sensations that I feel in my own body. When I sit in a quiet environment I can perceive these sensations in all of their small nuances. I prefer to be connected with the pet guardian by phone so that I can share a real-time verbal conversation with them as I send and receive thoughts with their pet. In this way, it is like sharing a 3-way conversation or working with a language translator. The person can have a conversation with their pet in a way that would not be possible by email with a pet communicator.

Pet Communication Works Globally

I have worked with clients all over the world and their feedback tells me that it works with only the potential inconvenience of our different time zones. So when searching for a pet communicator or pet psychic, ask your friends for referrals. Social media has really expanded our social circle so don’t be afraid to inquire there. You no longer need to search only “near me”. The right match might be in your own neighborhood or across the globe but your pet won’t care either way. Make the call, open the conversation, and delve into new levels of relationship with the animals you love.

Animal Communicator Partnerships

6 Professionals That Should Partner With An Animal Communicator

Post author By Marjorie Lewis
Post date February 23, 2023

Open communication leads to understanding. That’s the truth. Whether we are discussing human relationships or the relationships we share with our companion animals, opening a conversation leads to a healthier relationship based on a deeper understanding of one another. One of the best ways to have communication with your animals is to hire an animal communicator.

Improving Relationships with Your Pet

Whether your animal companion is a lap cat, an agility champion dog, or an endurance horse, you must partner with many professionals to keep your pet happy and healthy. These professionals each have their own toolbox of skills, education, and experience to lend to you and your pet, but none of them can know your pet on the same level that you can.

Animal Communicators can not only help improve the relationship between you and your pet, but they can also help you improve the relationship between your pet and the other professionals you have working with them, as well as your relationship with those professionals.

Pet Professionals That Partner Well with An Animal Communicator

There are several professionals that work with pets and I’ve highlighted 6 that I think make great partnerships for animal communicators. They are a:

Veterinarian
Veterinarian technician (vet tech)
Dog trainer
Horse trainer
Pet sitter
Animal shelter volunteer

Veterinarians and Vet Techs

Veterinarians and vet techs have a lot of experience with different animals, breeds, and medical situations but they have a very limited time to get to know your pet on a deeper level. They are limited by the experience presented to them during your brief visit. They must rely on visual observation of symptoms and lab work. Imagine how much more insight your vet would gain if they could have a real conversation with your pet, asking about where it hurts and other physical symptoms that are not externally visible such as nausea or joint pain. With even basic knowledge of animal communication, veterinary staff can help create a less stressful environment for visiting pets, conveying their intention to help and reducing fear triggers for the pets.

Dog and Horse Trainers

The expanded understanding that comes with animal communication can also benefit professional dog and horse trainers. When an animal has the opportunity to express details about their own experience of the world it can help to explain behavior patterns and triggers. Not all training techniques fit all personality types. Gaining individual knowledge directly from the pet about their unique personality and preferences can help guide any trainer to develop a program that works best with that animal. A dog that is reactive to loud noises or voices might learn better using hand signals. A horse might express a past experience that created fear of closed spaces. With knowing this, the trainer can begin the process out in the open and work on rewarding the horse when entering closed spaces. The deeper the understanding of the animal and its own unique nature, the better the trainer can react and build trust.

Pet Sitters and Animal Shelter Volunteers

The same principles are true for pet sitters and animal shelter volunteers. The deeper the understanding between them and the pets in their care, the less stressful the interaction is for all parties. Both pet sitters and shelter volunteers encounter situations where they need to provide care in close contact with animals they may have never met before. These animals are generally in a state of wariness or uncertainty when encountering new people. Life in a shelter can be deeply stressful. They just don’t know what to expect. A consultation with an animal communicator can help to open the lines of communication and understanding that can facilitate the building of a trust-based relationship. Once the pet can begin to understand the motivation of these strangers, (caretaking) and the expectations of this relationship (trust) they can begin to let their guard down and let their true personality shine through.

Aren’t all relationships based on trust and open, honest, mutual communication? Why should our relationships with animals be any different? Don’t be hesitant about sharing these ideas with the professionals on your pet’s care team and see how it works.