I recently read an intriguing book, “Kinship With All Life” by J. Allen Boone, that had been recommended to me by fellow animal lovers for over 20 years. Boone shares many of his personal experiences communicating with various species, from a remarkable dog that came in to his life to a common housefly.
Boone’s first animal teacher was a famous German shepherd film screen actor named Strongheart. Until this dog was placed in his care, Boone had not had personal experience with canines. Little did he know what an impact this creature would have on his life.
Studies have revealed that many of our ancient human societies communicated easily and deeply with other species, but it seems to have gotten lost as we evolved, or devolved, some might say. Today there are many humans who are reverting to the old ways of learning to communicate with a variety of animals.
Most successful equestrians share this depth of communication with their mounts. Verbal communication is not required. It is more the melding of the two beings in to one, sharing each other’s thoughts and intentions.
I myself have enjoyed exchanges with other beings, both wild and domestic, throughout my life both with and without intention. I believe the success of these events has come from spending so much of my time with animals and having such a deep affection for them.
I used to go for walks regularly with my beloved Husky, Skye. We took the same route back in the woods to a hill where I would sit on the grass and meditate. While I did this, Skye would wander off and explore and return when I was finished. One day, I heard him trotting up to where I sat way earlier than usual. I continued to meditate with my eyes closed after he stopped beside me.
When I opened my eyes, I was surprised to see that it was not Skye at all, but a wild coyote standing there looking at me inquisitively. I felt in total awe of having this wild creature so close to me, unafraid and trusting, just looking in to my eyes. We held this exchange for almost a minute, then he trotted down the hill, turned and gave me one last glance and retreated in to the forest. I was elated!
Recently, based on what I had read in Boone’s book, I used meditation in a conscious effort to connect with a dog my friends had asked me to check on. Smokie is one of maybe three dogs who have displayed a great dislike for me right from the get-go. When I tried to put his leash on, he growled and tried to bite me. I decided to simply open the kennel door and let him come out on his own. As he played in the grass with my dog, I began to meditate and send messages of love to Smokie.
Just as I opened my eyes, the little guy walked right past me, went in to his kennel all on his own and laid down. I then handed him a treat through the wire and he took it readily. Ever since then when I see Smokie, he greets me with joy. Coincidence?
Cate Drown is the proprietor of Beyond Reason Ranch, where she provides specialized care for all beings large or small. Contact Cate at latecate1957@gmail.com.