Our pets are so good at reading our mood and comforting us when we’re sad or stressed. We can learn to return the favor.
Poor mental health is surging these days. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 adults struggle with some form of mental health issue. And our pets are not immune; they are suffering with anxiety and depression just like the rest of us. Research by Guide Dogs UK reveals that nearly 75% of dogs showed signs of poor mental health in 2022.
Much like humans, an animal’s mental distress can manifest as anxiety, fear, or destructive behavior, depending on the severity of the condition. And an animal doesn’t need to experience extreme abuse or neglect to exhibit those symptoms. Sometimes a big change, such as moving to a new house or losing a loved one can trigger a response. Some dogs are even showing signs of post-covid social anxiety, with “other dogs or cats” surpassing all but “loud noises” as the leading cause of canine anxiety in 2022!
Today's special guest, Joan Ranquet, is an accomplished animal communicator of over 30 years, an author, TEDx speaker, educator, and animal guardian. She donates her time to animal rescue missions, sanctuaries, and therapeutic riding centers, and is an avid fundraiser for organizations focused on the rescue, recovery, and rehabilitation of compromised animals and endangered species. She has served as Star-Lioness, an advisory/sounding board for the Global White Lion Protection Trust, and on the Spiritual Council for The Gentle Barn.
Joan’s newest book is Emotional Freedom Technique for Animals and their Humans, Creating a Harmonious Relationship through Tapping. She is also the author of several other books.
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