Travelling wannabee

When I travel I feel free to look at the world differently. I pack clothes I don't usually wear. And wear earings from the bottom of my jewelry box and even apply make up now and then. I choose to skip the evening ritual cigarette and will communicate information to friends and family that I usually would not share.

I also find the odd moments where I experience stress. I will leave much earlier to catch a bus and a train than is necessary. Much much earlier. And when I am meeting with people my introvert heart hammer thuds in my ears. I consciously calm myself down. Search for what is familiar and easy. Break down what needs doing into steps. Work to avoid crazy anticipation angst.

What does this have to do with animals? Seasoned theorists may have noted some training lingo already.

This is my lesson. The animals in my life require adventure. Not once in a while. But everyday. Just small incremental fun times where they get to experience something novel. Why?

Because the more familiar my experience, the more I am able to cope with change. I can happily catch a train in the Czech Republic on my own now. On my first visit every station name sounded like a completely impossible concept. I am relaxed on the journey and able to appreciate other aspects of this incredible place.

So. If the animals are experiencing something new from a place of comfort we are effectively increasing their comfort zone. That novel experience may become a part of its familiar. Which means they are more able to cope with whatever comes there way.

Sure we want them to feel secure. The suggestion is that for their true welfare a bit of a daily suprise is in order.

What will you do for your dog today? And tomorrow? And ...

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

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In memory of my mother

My mum passed when I was 23. I never really had the opportunity to come back home to a respectful relationship with her after my teenage rebellious tribulations and assaults on her goodwill. So this blog is to honour and thank her for her contribution to my love for nature. She was an avid bird watcher and had dreams of travelling through the bush. I have many memories of her being fascinated by animals on our weekend getaways to the Kruger National Park. My first memory of her was her riding a horse called Thunder. That is a beautiful memory and the name of the horse is as mystical and awe inspiring as her impact on who I am in relationship with animals. She was fearless. And always confident that all would be well. She had faith in my animal relationships always. As a very young child I was given the task on many occasions to hand rear orphan wildlife and pets. She never micro managed the process but would offer helpful insight that came naturally to her. The animals in our home

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Reflections and projections

When they judge or throw stones (the people) - grace makes us the blank screen or the still water onto which they can see themselves and take personal account for their actions. When we train animals can we be that clear. So as to wisely be and act rather than contest and fight for what we want🥰

Touching Animal Souls

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