sandy

WELCOME to the "ark"

I am a therapist for humans, but have analyzed animals for people over the years. It will not surprise any animal lovers out there that our animals psyche and our own are deeply intertwined. They can heal us and we can heal them.
There are zillions of great dog and horse trainers out there. Even some good bird trainers. (I haven't heard of any good cat trainers-we'll go into that a bit later). I am not a trainer. I only want to understand why behaviors and illnesses go "off the deep end." With understanding, we can overcome and prosper.

THE HOOK UP

So, what kind of animal should you get?
Most people choose the animal they come home with based on size and length of hair (this does not apply to horses most of the time)
First of all, let's establish the basics about what species of animal fits you the best:
Dogs are like children who never grow up. Always dependent, a little pushy, ego-centric (that is, it's always all about THEM). They will adjust their passion to yours and love time with their person above all else.
Cats are like a good friend that doesn't always want to do what you want to do, but sometimes will. They are independent, self-motivated and can be comforting and fun, but can be fine without you, too. Often they need some alone time.
Horses are like servants. They expect to perform in some way, and relish their work, once they are in the right job. They are like a big mirror into our spirits. If you are nervous, so are they, etc. I have never met a bad horse-it is almost always "pilot error".
The rodent animals (guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, etc.) can be every bit as attached and responsive to their person as a dog is. They are like babies-very dependent, timid and are soothed by resting in their person's arms.
Good start for finding the animal that matches up with you.