The holidays are upon us, and it’s time to celebrate the joy of the season with family and friends, including your animal family. Unfortunately, the holiday season also disrupts daily routines, which can create stress and anxiety in pets.

Your pet’s daily rituals build confidence and help them feel safe, secure, and loved. For many animals, even the small changes in their daily routine can be stress and anxiety-producing, especially for elderly pets. If left unchecked, stress can impact your pet’s behavior, health, and overall quality of life.

To avoid behavioral problems and stress, here are three easy ways to prepare your animal family so you can all enjoy a fun and joyful Holiday Season:

The post 3 Tips to Prepare Pets for The Holidays. appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

You’re not alone.

One of the hardest parts of being a pet parent is seeing them suffer and not knowing how to help.

That’s why a new scientific study on distant Animal Reiki is such important news.

The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) journal recently published a clinical study looking at the effects of distant Reiki on the quality of life and well-being of dogs.

The results?
100% of the dogs who received distant Reiki over a 6-week period showed improvement in their pain levels.

Even more remarkable: 70% of those dogs experienced “excellent” or “moderate” pain relief. [If you’re curious, READ Study Here].​

This study is exciting news because it provides scientific evidence, not just personal stories, that distant Reiki helps reduce chronic pain in dogs.

If you feel Reiki can help your animal family become less stressed and experience less pain, consider a Distant Reiki Session.

For over 15 years, I’ve seen the positive effects of distant Reiki. The shifts can be especially profound when animals receive ongoing sessions.

Take Samantha Rose, who is an anxious, reactive dog with severe food and allergy issues that leave her uncomfortable in her skin. Her weekly distant Reiki sessions have helped calm her nervous system, and her skin is improving. And she is less reactive. Her mom, Sharon, says they’re both doing better because of Reiki.

Then there’s Rex Harrison, a gentle Great Pyrenees living with chronic pain from torn ligaments in his hind legs. With weekly Reiki, Rex is visibly more relaxed and moves with greater ease and joy. (Plus, his person feels less worried.)

Stories like Samantha Rose’s and Rex’s reflect what science is starting to confirm: Distant Reiki can ease pain and support well-being in our animal companions.

What Is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle, energy-based healing practice that supports balance in body, mind, and spirit. It helps activate the body’s natural ability to relax, restore, and heal itself. It’s gentle and can do no harm.

How Distant Reiki Works

Distant Reiki for animals is just as effective as in-person sessions. In most cases, even more so. It’s because your animal stays in the comfort of home that they’re able to relax fully, without the stress of travel or the worry of being touched if they’re in pain.

That deep relaxation allows the nervous system to settle. And it’s in that state of calm where healing can begin.

 Why Distant Reiki Helps Relieve Pain and Stress

Distant Reiki allows your animal to receive healing energy while staying in the comfort of home, with no travel, disruption, or stress. Just rest in their favorite spot.

Distant Reiki is gentle, intuitive, and always led by the animal’s comfort level. Reiki knows and flows where it’s needed most; whether to soothe chronic pain, calm the nervous system, or support emotional healing.

And it always works alongside your existing veterinary care and never against it.

A Distant Reiki session offers your animal:

Relief from stress and physical discomfort
Calming of the nervous system
Energetic support for healing and wellness
No travel or routine disruption
Always gentle, never harmful, and complements all veterinary care

A distant Reiki session offers your animal family a safe, natural way to feel better holistically: physically, emotionally, energetically.

Ready to help your pet relax, rebalance, and feel more at ease?

Schedule a Distant Reiki Session today to help your pet relax, release stress, and find Relief from chronic pain.

The post Reiki Eases Chronic Pain in 100% of Dogs, Study Finds appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

Why?

Because so many animals suffer from the fireworks. 

Did you know that more pets go missing over this holiday then any other time of year? 

While fireworks might be fun for humans, they’re deeply distressing for our animal companions. Every year around July 4th, I hear from heartbroken pet parents whose animals bolt from the house, tremble uncontrollably, or even end up in the emergency vet.

The loud bangs, flashing lights, and deep vibrations overwhelm pets’ nervous systems.

And once they’re in panic mode, it’s incredibly hard for them to settle. Their fear drowns out everything—including your voice and any attempt to soothe them.

My Dog Feared Fireworks

My beloved Keeshond, Kobe Bear—now In Spirit—struggled terribly with fireworks. The first July 4th we spent together, I had no idea he’d melt down the way he did. He trembled, barked, paced, and tried to hide in the smallest spaces he could find.

Even though I could communicate with him telepathically, the fear was louder than my reassurances. One year, he became so panicked he tried to jump out of a second-story window—desperate to escape what felt like danger all around him.

I closed windows. I played music. I tried to distract him and stayed by his side. But it wasn’t enough. Looking back, I wish I had explored medication with my veterinarian. Sometimes, even with all our tools and love, our animals need more support than we can give on our own.

Now is the time to set your animal family up for safety:

Create a plan of action now to make sure they are safe and secure when the fireworks are happening. 
Keep them in a cool, quiet and secure space away from the action.
Make sure they have fresh water and shade if their outdoors.
Don’t let guests feed them—even accidentally.
Avoid sparklers, glow sticks, and noisemakers around pets.

A little prevention goes a long way in protecting the ones you love.

9 Tips Keep Your Pet Feel Safe and Calm

These simple steps will go a long way in helping you keep your animal family safe and secure as their world explodes.

1. ID tags = your pet’s ticket home.
Even indoor pets can bolt through doors or screens. A collar with a current ID tag and your mobile number is the quickest way to get them back. Check microchips and keep info up to date. Horses benefit from breakaway halters with contact info, too.
Consider attaching an AirTag or GPS tracker to their collars

2. Fireworks don’t have to be close = still scary.
Your pet can hear and feel fireworks going off blocks away. Their hearing is far more sensitive than ours.
Stay aware of neighborhood plans and prepare ahead.

3. Early exercise = less panic later.
A good walk or play session helps burn off energy and tension. Tired pets are often less reactive.
Potty breaks should happen before the booms begin.

4. Safe space = sanctuary, not punishment.
Set up a cozy, quiet spot with familiar bedding and scents. Use crates or closets if that’s where they feel safe. For cats, provide water, litter, and hiding spots.
Consider streaming pet calming music

5. Your presence = their greatest comfort.
You don’t have to fix it—you just have to be there. When you stay grounded and calm, your animal feels it.
Sit with them, distract them with toys or tasty treats, or simply breathe together.

6. Less stimulation = more calm.
Close curtains and windows. Dim the lights. One bright flash can undo hours of calm. Play calming music like My Zen Pet.
Cover crates lightly if that helps your pet feel tucked in.

7. Comfort tools = extra support.
Animal Reiki help regulate your animal’s nervous system.
I’m offering distant Reiki sessions all week.

8. Animal Communication = Help your pet feel safe through shared understanding

Explaining the fireworks and your plans helps your animal feel included, supported, and more grounded—even during chaos.

9. Medication = a valid form of support.
If your pet melts down every year, talk to your vet before the holiday starts. The right medication may save your pet from trauma—or worse.
This isn’t about sedating them. It’s about protecting their well-being.

Bonus Reminder: Keep Pets Safe at Gatherings and BBQs

Did you know that most pets end up at the emergency vet on July 4th for reasons that have nothing to do with fireworks?

Greasy BBQ scraps, corn cobs, and chocolate can cause serious digestive issues—or even require surgery.
Hot pavement burns paws quickly.
Heatstroke can set in fast at crowded, noisy backyard parties.

You’re Not Alone

If you need extra support, reach out: cathy@animalmuse.com

Book a session here

Wishing you and your animal family a safe, calm, and connected 4th of July.

The post July 4th Tips to Keep Pets Calm and Safe appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

Are you feeling anxious about leaving your pet while you travel?
Not sure if they’d rather go on vacation or stay home?
Wondering if your pet is okay with the pet sitter or boarding arrangements you’ve made?

Preparing Pets for Changes in Routine

Going on vacation can be a challenge, especially when you have pets.
Before you finalize your vacation plans, it’s incredibly helpful to check in with your animal family to ensure they understand and approve of the plans you’ve chosen for them.

In my 30+ years of experience, animals tend to be more relaxed and happier when you include them in your pet travel planning process.

Communicating your plans with your pets before you leave helps everyone feel more settled. Regular routines bring comfort and predictability. When those routines change suddenly—without any warning or preparation—it can be unsettling and anxiety-provoking for animals.

Some pets genuinely prefer to stay at home while you travel because change is hard for them—or they simply don’t enjoy traveling.

Others love going wherever you go—but still need reassurance and support while on the road.

After all, the goal is to have a stress-free travel and vacation without worrying about your beloved animals.

Introducing the Pet Travel Support Package

This support package is especially helpful for managing pet travel anxiety or stress related to routine changes.

It’s amazing how much calmer you and your animal companions will feel when you include them in your decision-making process. You’re not second-guessing what they want—you already know.

That’s why I created the Pet Travel Support Package.  It’s a powerful combination of Animal Communication and Animal Reiki designed to help your pets feel calm and secure whether they are vacationing with or at home with a petsitter. The goal is for everyone to have a relaxed and stress-free vacation.

Here’s How It Works:

Animal Communication – Before you travel, I talk with your animal and explain what’s happening. I let them know when you’re leaving, who will be caring for them, and when you’ll return. I also ask what they need to feel safe, supported, and okay with the plan. This helps prepare them and can significantly reduce pet separation anxiety.

Animal Reiki – I offer distance Reiki sessions to help your animal relax and stay emotionally balanced throughout your absence. Reiki is gentle, calming, and gives your pet energetic support while their routine shifts. This is especially helpful for cats staying home alone or dogs adjusting to new environments.

What Does Your Animal Really Want?

When Staying Home Is Best: Easing Pet Travel Anxiety

Sadie’s Beach Dilemma:
Donna reached out as she finalized her summer vacation plans to Virginia Beach. She asked her dog, Sadie, if she wanted to go to the beach or stay with her human grandparents. Sadie confessed that the ocean scared her! She asked to stay with her grandparents, where she felt safe and peaceful.
After the trip, Donna said that talking with Sadie ahead of time reduced their stress and helped her enjoy her vacation more—knowing Sadie was happy, secure, and being spoiled by her grandparents.

Kiki’s Pet Hotel Preparation: Rachael likes to check in with her adorable 14-year-old Pomeranian, Kiki, before traveling for business or pleasure. With my assistance, Rachael tells Kiki about the pet hotel where she will be staying so her little friend is well prepared for the upcoming shifts in her daily routine.

Bettie’s Routine Comfort: Susie contacts me every time she leaves her dog—even if it’s only for a day or two. She feels it’s essential for her senior collie, Bettie, to be apprised of the upcoming changes in her routine. Susie finds it beneficial that Bettie is okay with her pet sitter. Communicating with one another is reassuring and helpful. When Susie leaves her collie, they both have peace of mind. And Bettie feels safe because her voice was heard.

Daisy’s Calm Vacation: Emily was especially nervous about leaving her senior cat, Daisy, who’s on multiple medications. Emily’s mom gifted her a Reiki Bundle of 3 Distance Reiki sessions while she was away. When Emily returned, Daisy was calm, cool, and collected. Reiki helped her stay balanced and supported the entire time.

Emily texted:

Let’s Make This Summer Easier—for Both of You

If you’d like support before your trip, I’m here to help—so your animal feels heard, supported, and cared for—every step of the way.

My Travel Support Package includes an Animal Communication session to hear what your pet wants and needs, plus Animal Reiki to help them feel calm and secure while you’re away.
You can also purchase Reiki Bundles (like Emily’s mom did!) to give your animal energetic support during your vacation—or any time they need extra care.

Special Offer: Get 10% off any Travel Support Package or Reiki Bundles, must be booked by midnight on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27th! Coupon Code: VACAY2025

Now’s the perfect time to plan ahead and give your animal the support they deserve for a peaceful summer.

Click here to book your Animal Communication or Reiki session
to make traveling fun, peaceful and joyful for you and your animal family.

The post Should My Pet Stay Home or Go On Summer Vacation? Ask Them! appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

After a long winter, it’s not just us who can feel a little sluggish or out of sync—our animal companions can, too.

Spring is the perfect time to support your pet’s well-being, ease their stress, and reconnect at the heart level.

Just ask Eileen and her beloved rescue dog, Rex Harrison—a 4-year-old Great Pyrenees with a heart of gold.

After Rex received his Spring Reset session, combining animal communication and Reiki– something magical happened.

Rex lit up with joy, literally bouncing on the way to visit his neighbors- the goats—a sight his mom had never seen since rescuing him two years ago.

Watch Rex’s joyful transformation

After the session, Eileen also felt at peace, especially after receiving answers to her questions from Rex.

Rex’s in-person Animal Communication + Reiki tune-up was healing for him and Eileen, too.

Whether your animal is beside you, down at the barn, or in spirit, they’re always welcome in a session.

Ready to give your animal family a Spring Reset to hear what they want you to know and to receive relaxing Reiki?
  Book your session today

Visit www.animalmuse.com or email: cathy@animalmuse.com.

The post Is Your Pet Feeling “Off”? A Spring Tune-up Can Help appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

If your dog growls, barks, or charges at guests—even those they’ve met before—it’s more than stressful—it’s exhausting.

And it can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation.

You’re not alone if you feel frustration, stress, and self-doubt. Even guilt.

Many devoted dog parents try everything—trainers, tools, techniques—yet still struggle to uncover what’s really going on beneath their dog’s unwanted behavior.

As an Animal Communicator and pet anxiety expert, I’ve supported hundreds of families through this exact challenge.

An Animal Communication session gives your dog a chance to share their perspective of why they are acting out, and what they feel they need to feel safe, supported, and at ease.

Once you understand the root cause of your dog’s behavior, you can work together to find solutions that are sustainable.

Meet Eleanor: A Gentle Giant on High Alert

Recently, I spoke with Eleanor, a 6-year-old English Mastiff, and her devoted person, Laura, about precisely this.

Eleanor is deeply loved. She’s been an integral part of Laura’s family since she was a pup and adores the four children she lives with.

But when people come to the door—including visitors she’s met before—Eleanor’s behavior becomes unpredictable, intense, potentially dangerous, and, at times, very scary.

She growls, blocks the path with her enormous body, and even charges at anyone who tries to enter the house.

The potential of someone getting hurt is real, and thankfully, Laura recognizes she must find a way to help Eleanor stop her aggressive behavior for everyone’s safety. 

To Laura’s credit, she has worked with multiple trainers and tried many techniques.

Out of desperation and on the recommendation of a police dog trainer, Laura tried using a shock collar as a last resort. She resisted at first—’It just doesn’t feel right,’ she told me—and her instinct was correct.

While it seemed to stop the immediate behavior, it didn’t address what Eleanor was actually feeling underneath.

She tried it because she thought it was the only thing that helped Eleanor understand that it was ok to let visitors in.

What Eleanor Shared

During our session, Eleanor showed me she was overwhelmed and anxious.

She expressed that being a guard dog in a busy, active family of six was a lot, even though she was trying her best.

But that constant state of vigilance had become exhausting and stressful for her—and for Laura.

She didn’t always feel this way.

The past 5 years brought tremendous change to Eleanor’s life.

First, the pandemic hit, and Laura was pregnant. Then Eleanor went through a life-threatening illness that changed her.

To top it off, the family moved from California to the East Coast.

These experiences left Eleanor feeling unsure and unsettled in her new home.

A Guard Dog Under Pressure

Eleanor expressed that Laura told her that it was her job to protect the entire household 24/7 and that she takes her job very seriously.

It seems Eleanor missed the memo about letting visitors in.

In her mind, anyone outside the immediate family was suspicious until proven otherwise, even if she had met that person before.

Laura hadn’t realized that asking Eleanor to be “on guard” all the time created a level of pressure Eleanor simply couldn’t handle.

Eleanor — You’re Fired (With Love)!

This was a turning point in Eleanor’s session.

I suggested that Eleanor be fired from her guard dog duties in the house

Not in anger. But with kindness, relief, and yes, even a little humor.

Laura thanked Eleanor for protecting her family and told her, out loud: “Thank you for protecting us. You’ve done an amazing job. But you’re fired. You don’t need to protect the house 24/7. I’ve got it now.”

As Laura shared these heartfelt words, Eleanor’s body softened, her breathing relaxed, and you could almost feel the tension leave her.

Dogs often need permission from their person to stop doing a job they were asked to do, especially if they’re not good at it and can potentially cause harm.

Creating Safety Without Pressure

We also discussed the importance of creating a sense of safety for Eleanor and the children.

I encouraged Laura to consider using a crate—not as punishment but as a cozy den where Eleanor could retreat and relax, especially when the house gets busy with visitors and kids.

The goal wasn’t to isolate her, but to give her a break from the overwhelming energy she thought she had to protect against.

With Eleanor safely in her crate, Laura can also relax and stop worrying and stressing out about keeping everyone safe.

Going forward, I suggested that Laura:

• Use gates at doorways to protect visitors.

• Support Eleanor with Reiki to ease emotional tension and find balance.

• Educate her children and friends on how to be safe around dogs, like avoiding eye contact and turning away.

• Encouraging Laura to lead Eleanor with grounded energy because Eleanor feels safer when Laura is a confident dog handler.

Why This Matters

When your dog is reactive or overprotective, it doesn’t just affect visitors and their safety—it can affect your whole family and life.

Your dog’s reaction to guests can lead to isolation, stress, guilt, and a breakdown in trust.

And underneath it all, your dog isn’t trying to be difficult—they’re trying to cope the best they can.

Animal Communication can help you determine the root cause of your dog’s anxiety, reactive behavior, or overprotective behavior.

You don’t have to figure it out alone, nor does your dog.

The Lesson

This session was a beautiful reminder that animals don’t need to be “fixed”—they need to be heard, supported, and understood so they can feel safe.

And healing begins.

Before You Go

If your animal is showing signs of stress, reactivity, or overwhelm, consider this:
They’re trying to tell you something.

Schedule Your Animal Communication Session today and begin the journey back to peace~together.

*Originally published May 15, 2025*

The post How An Anxious Dog Was ‘Fired’ With Love (And Why It Worked) appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

Every 4 months, Jamie travels 4 hours to the veterinary hospital to receive follow-up tests like CT scans, ultrasounds, and blood work. These visits are stressful for Jamie, especially since he needs to be sedated for his tests.

Since his diagnosis, his person Annie sets up Animal Communication sessions before each vet visit to find out how Jamie is feeling, figure out what he needs and prepare him for the arduous trip. Talking with Jamie also helps Annie cope and deal with her anxiety, stress, and fear.

Besides communicating with Jamie before his visits, I also offer him Reiki right before he receives his tests to help him.

Before his last visit, we decided to give Jamie 2 Reiki sessions: one the night before his vet visit and another an hour before his Ultrasound.

After Jamie’s visit, Annie shared the following:

“The 2nd Reiki session made a massive difference because it helped Jamie to reduce his stress enough to receive his Ultrasound and obtain a tissue sample without sedation! His vets were pleased because this was the first time Jamie hadn’t needed sedation! I believe Reiki was the reason why.

Bless you, Cathy, for your care, compassion, and understanding of what Jamie needed.”

The post Reiki Eases Dog’s Anxiety Before Ultrasound appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

I’m grateful to this progressive animal welfare organization for recognizing how sharing animal Reiki and animal communication helps ease shelter animals’ stress, fear, and anxiety. It also helps animals to feel safe and develop trust which can make them more adoptable. 
This is what CHS shared about my role as an Animal Reiki practitioner:
Volunteer role: Animal Reiki practitioner

Length of service: 3 months

I started volunteering because…I love animals and want to help shelter animals with animal Reiki and animal communication.

My favorite part of volunteering is…seeing the animals relax when I offer them Reiki, which is meditating with them for healing.

My most memorable volunteer experience is…helping Machin the ferret with Reiki because he had dental issues and then seeing him find his forever home.

I love animals because…they are wise and loving. They are our spiritual teachers, healers, and guides who love us unconditionally and without judgment.

I know I am making a difference when…I see anxious animals become relaxed and more trusting.

The little things I do to help make a pets’ stay at CHS better include…sharing Reiki and giving them “pep talks” to assure them they are safe and the CHS team is doing its best to find them their purr-fect forever home.
My advice for new volunteers is…take time to observe the animal and let them show you how they want to interact with you.

My favorite things to do outside of CHS include…spending time with my two cats, Mona Marie and Elvis, and raising my puppy Yogi Bear and taking him on walks.

My hidden talent is…I’m an animal muse who is able to translate animals’ thoughts, feelings, and viewpoints so they can be better understood.

I think volunteerism is important because…being of service to the animals is good for them and me!

To learn more about CHS, CLICK HERE.

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One thing I learned in 2020 is to be patient, flexible, and above all, trust my intuition.

Of the many challenges I faced last year, the worst one was suddenly losing my dog, Bodhi Bear, to stomach cancer in early December 2020. Saying goodbye to my best friend and constant companion’s physical presence shattered my heart into a million pieces. 

Being a great friend and dog, Bodhi Bear made sure I got through my move from California to Connecticut before showing signs of his grave illness. For so many reasons, I’ll forever be grateful to Bodhi for all that he gave me in his short seven and a half years with me. 

Bodhi Bear and me

I decided years ago that I never wanted to walk alone and needed a Keeshond by my side to feel whole. So when I let Bodhi go because he was too ill to eat, I knew in my heart that I would have to find another dog. 

Right after Bodhi transitioned, I immediately began searching for my Keeshond puppy and quickly located one. However, in hindsight, I realized that I was not emotionally ready to raise a puppy. 

At the same time, I asked my two twenty-year-old cats, Mona and Elvis, how they felt about a puppy. Elvis said he was on board with raising a puppy as long as the puppy didn’t chase him. Elvis has always liked dogs and was good friends with Kobe Bear and Bodhi Bear. 

On the other hand, Mona has never been a fan of dogs. Mona tolerated Bodhi, but he would literally piss her off at times as he made Mona feel unsafe. Finally, Mona made it clear that she’s perfectly content living without a dog, especially a puppy.

After Bodhi passed, I noticed a considerable change in my cats. Mona, who is deaf, was consistently using her cat box and confidently galloping around the house in a way I hadn’t seen in years. Elvis was also feeling more at ease. Both cats were more playful and relaxed. Plus, the three of us had plenty of bonding time without Bodhi.

As we waited for the puppy to arrive, my fuzzy nephew, Fozzie Bear, came for a visit. Fozzie’s presence stressed and upset Mona more than I realized. She communicated physically in her body language and telepathically that she was not happy with Fozzie’s presence. After Fozzie chased Elvis, Mona reiterated her intense dislike by peeing in my bed.

Mona’s peeing was a wake-up call. I realized I needed to listen to her with an open heart and let go of my desire to get a puppy for the time being. When I truly heard and understood my cats’ concerns, I realized it was not the right time to bring a puppy into our family.

While it was hard letting the puppy go, I was okay with waiting for Mona and Elvis’s sake. It’s the least I can do since she and Elvis have been my loyal family members and cherished companions for 20 years. And the last thing I want to do is piss Mona off again! 

My fuzzy nephew, Fozzie Bear

During the cold, blustery, snowy months of my first New England winter in 30 years, I was grateful I didn’t have to housebreak a puppy. Instead, I’m glad I listened to Mona and Elvis, who were right to make me wait.

Around March 1st, I intuitively got the message that it was time to start looking for my puppy again. Synchronistically, I also felt Mona and Elvis were in a good place to receive a dog into our family. 

At about the same time, I told my sister that I felt my puppy had been born, and I would start looking for him. I did find a boy Keeshond, but I didn’t feel a heart connection with him.

As I continued to look, I kept reminding myself that I needed to trust my intuition to find my perfect bundle of puff.

As I searched, I reached out to my dear friend, Donna, a Keeshonden breeder. She introduced me to the Keeshond breed almost thirty years ago. I rescued my first two, Keeshonden, KC, and Kobe Bear, from Donna. It’s because of Donna, that I fell in love with this special dog breed.

So naturally, I reached out to Donna when I received the inner “call” to start looking for my new fuzzy friend. 

Shortly after I contacted Donna, she sent me an email saying that a 3-year-old male Keeshond show dog, Corey, was looking for a home. She urged me to reach out to his breeder to find out more. I had to sit with the idea of bringing an unsocialized, unneutered, untrained show dog into my family for a while before I called the breeder. 

I decided to take the same advice I give my clients, which is, “you never know.” Sometimes you have to go left to get it right. So I called the breeder, even though I knew in my heart that the dog wouldn’t be a good fit for my family.

About 20 minutes into the conversation, the breeder let me know that she recently had a litter of puppies.

I immediately said, “What I really want is a boy puppy. I have many plans for my new friend as he has big paws to fill.”

The breeder listened but didn’t discuss the puppies any further since the call was about Corey.  After our conversation, I knew Corey was not my dog.

Afterward, I couldn’t help but wonder about the litter of puppies.

So I reached out to Donna and asked her if she knew about the litter of puppies. Donna said yes. Unbeknownst to me, Donna proceeded to tell the breeder, whom she knew well, that I would make a wonderful Keesie mom and she would be lucky to give me a puppy.

Yogi Bear at 3 weeks

Later that day, I received a message from Donna saying, “Well, what did you decide?”

I responded, “Decide what?”

Donna replied, “Check your email.”

In my inbox was an email from the breeder offering me a boy puppy from the litter! I couldn’t have asked for more! Serendipitously, the breeder has three cats who helped raise the puppies.

At the time, the puppies were only 3 weeks old. When the breeder sent me pictures of the three boys, I took one look at the puppy wearing the yellow collar, and I knew he was the puppy I had been searching for.

Over the next few weeks, I watched “Yellow” grow up virtually through Facebook posts, photos, videos, and even a few Zoom sessions. The more time I spent with him, the more I knew he’s my puppy. “Yellow” is good-natured, sweet, and very smart. 

Mona preparing for the puppy’s arrival

I flew to Detroit to pick up Yogi Bear on May 4th. Yogi Bear was a rock star on the flight home.

So far, the cats are peacefully co-existing with Yogi Bear. Yogi is everything I could ever want in a puppy and more. 

My heart is full of joy having Yogi Bear in my life. And so far, Mona and Elvis are peacefully co-existing with Yogi Bear. In time, I know they will embrace him.

The post Harnessing the Heart Power of Intuition to Find My New Keeshond Puppy appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.

One of my life’s purposes is to help animals in whatever way I can, whether it’s empowering them using animal communication, sharing Reiki, or meditating with them. I also gain tremendous joy raising money for different animal rescue and welfare organizations since they usually run entirely on donations. These life-saving organizations need ongoing financial support to feed, house, rehabilitate, give medical care and re-home animals in need.

Service work is an integral part of who I am, and that’s why I’m offering a couple of different fundraisers this month to help animals that I hope you will support. 

On April 19th, I’m offering Meditating with Horses Fundraiser. This webinar will benefit Rising Starr Horse Rescue in Wilton, Connecticut, which saves, rehabilitates, retrains, and re-homes abandoned, neglected, or abused horses.

On April, 30. I’m excited to team up with the Shelter Animal Reiki Association’s Director, Kelly McDermott-Burns, for Meditating with Farm Animals. This webinar will benefit the animals at The Little Red Barn Farm Sanctuary in Turnbridge, Vermont. 

We will create a powerful meditation circle during each fundraiser to offer peace and compassion to horses and farm animals. You experience a heart-opening meditation using the Reiki-based Let Animals Lead® Method that you can share with the animals in your life.

During each webinar, you will learn how meditating with horses and farm animals can

• Calm your mind and body
• Enhance your heart connection with animals
• Strengthen your relationship with animals 
• Create a peaceful and compassionate space
• Heal and transform the lives of animals and you!

I believe it’s essential to give our loving and positive energy to the circle of life. I feel honored to share the potent tool of meditating with different types of animals with you. And I’m excited for the animals to receive the healing benefits of having you meditate with them.

You don’t need to own a horse or farm animals to enjoy meditating with them during these special fundraisers. Just bring your desire to have an open-hearted connection and willingness to connect with these amazing animals for healing and transformation.

I hope you will join us and invite your friends to support horses and farm animals. When we meditate collectively with animals, it can shift humans’ hearts and minds compassionately.

The post Support Horses and Farm Animals with Meditation Fundraisers appeared first on Cathy Malkin -- Animal Muse Communication and Reiki.