3 generalizations about animals that drive me batty
There are so many generalizations that circulate about what animals feel, need, understand and think about…. but just like ‘one size fits all’ rarely fits anyone, these are doing you a disservice.
Here’s what to ask your animal friends instead.
There’s a trend I’m seeing on social media among some animal communicators where they tell their audience what animals think and feel - painting the illusion that all animals are the same.
Like a reel on “what pets feel their purpose is with humans,”
Or a post about “what animals understand about death, dying and the afterlife,”
Or a tell-all article about “what animals understand about reincarnation,”
Here’s the thing, though, when we stuff the beautifully complex and unique qualities of anyone—including our animal friends- into tiny generic boxes, we miss the chance to truly understand and know one another.
These kinds of blanket statements disregard your and your animal’s unique experiences and relationships. It can also reinforce dangerous stereotypes and discourage your curiosity to get to know who your animal friends truly are, causing you to miss the chance to understand their perspective. They can also lead to mistrust between humans and their pets.
3 generalizations about animals that drive me batty
Here are the top three generalizations I believe are harmful and what questions to ask your animal friends instead…
Generalization: “All animals understand the same things about (or need the same support) in death and dying".
Questions to ask your pets instead:
Can you tell me about what you understand about the death and dying process?
What do you believe happens to you when you pass away?
What kind of emotional and spiritual support would help you feel safe during your end-of-life transition?
Generalization: “All animals are here to heal or be of service to humans.”
Questions to ask your pets instead:
Can you tell me about what you feel your purpose is in this lifetime?
What are you here in this lifetime to learn, heal and transform?
What have you noticed that we both struggle with? What are the ways you’d like to team up and heal these things together?
Generalization: “All dogs or cats of a certain breed feel, need and want the same kinds of things for their lives.”
Questions to ask your pets instead:
What are your Superpowers and Kryptonite?
Can you tell me about the kinds of play and exercise you love the most and least?
What do you feel your role is in our family? Does this role work well for you or would you prefer something different?
Your pets have so much to tell you.
When you’re ready, I’d be honored to help you begin the conversation.
“Joanna has a true gift. Our call with her was deeply moving and left us with a different dimension of understanding and appreciation of the energy and environment we create for our dog. It was profoundly useful for us as we learn how to give our dog a spectacular life.”
- Kate - Via Google Reviews
