Words Can Wound or Heal

My words, my language are powerful ways to convey our intention, love, praise or any other emotion to our companion animals. Although we may think we are only using verbal language when interacting with out pets, we are actually using both verbal and non-verbal, or body language together. Animals are masters at interpreting non-verbal language—much better than their human caretakers. Ever notice how sad your pet becomes when it sees the suitcases coming out for a trip? Even though you have not spoken a word, your pet knows by your non-verbal actions that you will be leaving in the not too distant future.

Much of dog obedience training is done through non-verbal hand signals or cues. They watch what leg you start out on to know what is expected of them for that particular exercise, as well as your hands. In time, verbal commands are dropped and only hand signals are used for training. This is a perfect example of non-verbal language between you and your dog.

When we speak to our pets, their eyes light up. Dogs, cats, birds and even koi will respond to their owner’s voice. Human words, food and touch are the most bonding way to relate to our pets. To have a satisfying relationship with any pet, all these forms of communication should be used. In a healthy companion animal-caretaker relationship the sound of your words, especially spoken with love is music to your pet’s ears. You can observe the change in your pet’s demeanor. Tails wag, cats purr and birds ruffle their feathers in appreciation. Because pets have emotions like ours, a harsh word or a scolding will dampen the spirit of your pet.

Dog training in the last 10 years has undergone a dramatic change. Choke collars, harsh words and other aversive forms of correction are passé. Positive reinforcement in the form of verbal praise, touch and food treats have shown that a dog’s learning is much more accelerated than by older training methods making both owner and pets happier in the process.

When you tell your pet that you love, admire them and are glad that they are in your life and deepen the bond with your pet. That is a pretty inexpensive price to pay for unconditional love! Talk to your pet daily; tell it where you are going, when you’ll return, who is coming or going. Talk to your pet! It’s a great way to de-stress and your pet will more than likely join in!

A recent newspaper article reported that through scientifically controlled experiments, it was documented that a Border Collie in Europe was able to discern 300 words or commands and was able to use reason and carry out fairly complex reasoning and deduction skills.

Be careful what you say in front of your pets. They understand much more than you realize. Many pets understand when you say you are going for a walk or taking them to the vets or groomers and do a disappearing act if it is something that they don’t want to do.

We really need to be more conscious and aware about not only what we say to our pets but also how we say our words. Are we respectful in how we speak to them? Would we want to be addressed in the same manner or hear harsh words spoken to us? We help our own spiritual growth when we remember that we are all one, and all have a purpose in this lifetime. Remember, the words you choose to use with your pets as well as with people, can wound or heal. It takes so little thought to be kind in all our communication. Why not try it with your pet? I promise you will get back far more than what you give.

Thank you.
Charlene Boyd:
Animal Communicator