Confessions of a Pet Whisperer
Grand Valley Magazine, Colorado 2015
By: Terri Sides
"When I met Anna I was struck by her sweet brown eyes. I could sense she had quite a story to tell. You see, Anna had been owned by a hoarder with numerous other dogs and cats. Anna's life experience was one of neglect, hunger and inconsistent contact with humans. She was rescued and taken along with all the other animals to local shelters where many were adopted in loving homes.
Anna was one of the "failures". She had been brought back to the shelter twice! Being labeled unadoptable can be a death sentence for any animal but particularly for a very large dog of unknown breeding. Anna was frightened of many things; children, crowds, loud noises, brooms. She would panic when left alone and had chewed door frames in the past. Attempting to crate train Anna had been painful and bloody when she tore off her toenails trying to get out. The rest of the time, she was withdrawn and quiet. She got along fine with cats and other dogs and even completed a dog training class with the previous owner, successfully learning to walk on the leash without pulling. Her anxiety and behaviors eventually brought her back to the shelter. One day, Jan met Anna and fell in love. Anna had a new home and everyone was hopeful this time would be forever. Jan took her to another dog trainer, bought new toys and took her on daily walks. Unfortunately, there was no change in Anna's behaviors and anxiety.
That's when I got a call from Jan. I have been an animal communicator for 14 years and Jan needed my help with Anna. She told me Anna was a rescue and had lots of problems. When I sat down and began to communicate with Anna, I immediately felt panic, fear, sadness and confusion emanating from her. Anna was afraid that she would not be staying with Jan much longer. From the mental pictures and feelings Anna sent, I was able to interpret what Anna had to say. I asked Jan if she was willing to do whatever it took to keep Anna. She said yes and we communicated that determination to Anna. She also wanted the radio left on when she was left home alone, and some specific chew toys. A supplement for her to help manage her fears helped too and Anna wanted to understand when Jan expected to return home.
Jan made all these changes, reassuring Anna that she was in her forever home. It took time and effort but eventually Anna was able to stay calm when home alone, travel in the car and even socialize with others. She has become a beloved member of Jan's family. I felt very privileged to witness the changes that occurred with Anna when Jan understood what Anna needed and she was able to give that to her."
