ANIMAL TALK Affecting Your Pet’s Behavior
by Mary Lemons, BA, CHTP

People frequently ask me “How do I change my pet’s behavior just by talking to him?” The way I communicate with animals definitely helps with behavior issues, so let me share five points to consider when communicating with your pet regarding his behavior.

First of all, your pet needs to know what you expect of him. Explain in plain and simple words the behavior you desire, being very specific in your communication. Being specific with your requests to your pet helps bring both better and quicker results.

Secondly, tell your pet why you want a change in his behavior. Being specific and explaining why you desire something helps you and your pet develop a closer relationship. You shift from a control mode into more of a partnership.

Animals want to know what we expect and why. Explaining why you want your pet to change a behavior makes him more receptive to change. Animals are similar to humans in that they, like us, want to know why they should do something differently, rather than continuing their present behavior. The WHY is very important when you ask your pet to change a behavior.

Thirdly, talk with your pet using positive words and images. Notice the difference in the following two statements:

“Fido, do not pee on the couch.”
“Fido, thank you for peeing outside.”

With the first statement, “Fido, do not pee on the couch,” you get a visual of Fido peeing on the couch - the very behavior you want to avoid. Your dog gets that same image. For him to behave as you desire, he must change that image to something else. Although he knows what you do not want him to do, he may not know what you do want.

When you say, “Fido, thank you for peeing outside,” he gets the image of peeing outside, exactly the behavior you desire. Your pet does not have to second-guess you. He does not have to re-create an image. You have successfully given him a visual of acceptable behavior.

Once you have explained in positive statements the behavior you desire and why you desire it, you create and hold the space for your pet to successfully change his behavior. This fourth step helps you remove all of the images and thoughts of your pet‚s unacceptable behavior by your visualizing your pet in the desired behavior. If images of former misbehavior come to your mind, you immediately change them into the desired behavior.

Visualizing your pet doing as you request creates the space for your pet to do so more easily. Your thoughts, as well as your words, have power. They are creative energy. Use this creative energy. Make it easier for your pet to respond affirmatively to your requests.

Lastly, thank your pet for changing his behavior instead of commanding him to do so. Aren’t you more willing to do something if someone thanks you for doing it, instead of forcefully telling you to? Animals are similar to humans. They respond to praise. They shy away from harshness.

Talking with your pet can be a sharing of thoughts and desires. Animal communication is about building upon a relationship of mutual respect, rather than control. Remember these five basic elements of changing your pet’s behavior by talking with him:

1. Be specific about what behavior you desire.
2. Explain why you desire a change in behavior.
3. Use positive words and images when you talk with your pet.
4. Create and hold the space for your pet to change his behavior by visualizing his correct behavior.
5. Thank your pet for responding favorably to your request.

You can help change your pet’s behavior by communicating with him in a very practical way. When he responds favorably to your requests, you realize that you have transcended the perceived barriers between species. You realize that you CAN talk with your pet and that your pet CAN listen and happily respond to you.

Mary Lemons is founder of Inner Awakenings, a holistic practice for all species. Mary has a deep connection to animals and the healing presence they bring into our lives. In addition to being a professional Animal Communicator, she is a Reiki Master, Kinesiologist, and Certified Healing Touch Practitioner. She blends all of her training with her intuitive abilities, providing valuable support for those seeking personal growth with themselves or with their animals. You can contact Mary at marylemons@ctc.net 704.422.5055 or healingwholeself.net