Who do animals think we are?

We have a very special connection with our animal companions. Often, we think of our companions as our babies. We know they are not human, duh. But the love and protection we feel about them is the same as we feel for our human children. It is not exactly the same, but it comes very close. So, what do our companions think of us?

As an animal communicator, I get to hear firsthand what companions think about their humans and the people in their lives. They may not have the same words we use to describe different relationships, but they do have differences. Of course, each personality will have their own idea of who people are to them. This is just a general description of what animals think. Obviously, there will be deviations, as there are with all things.

1- Animals know that we are not the same as them. They do not call us HUMANS. They don't use words to describe any species. They learn from scent, visuals, and behavior of an animal whether they are the same or a different species.

2- Animals can accept other breeds as their pack members. There are plenty of records of wild animals taking in strays or one species nursing the baby of another. Animals do like to stick with their own kind, but they recognize need and will adopt someone in need.

3- Depending on how old they were when they come to your home, animals may develop feelings similar to what they feel for their mother. They do not think you birthed them. They know you are different. But they also recognize you as the guardian, the "parent", and because we as humans are pretty predictable in our life patterns, that relationship remains. If an animal was allowed to stay with the mom and littermates in the wild, they would eventually leave the pack for a while to find their own mate or also develop roles necessary to keep the pack healthy. Eventually, the MOM (alpha female) would age, and they would take care of her. Since humans live longer than our animal companions, they never get the opportunity to grow through the ranks and so remain "stuck" in that "baby" role.

4- Boyfriends and Girlfriends are not automatically "dad" or "mom". They have learned that you are their person. Other add-ons are "Friends". Until this person becomes a stationary member of the family, they will never take on the parent role; sometimes, they never do. But they are welcomed as part of the pack.

5- Walkers, daycare workers, and your friends are "Friends". They may like some more than others. Just as we have best friends and acquaintances, so do animals. Not everyone needs to be welcomed and included by them. Let them form their own relationships with the people in your life.

6- Many animals prefer women to men. This does not automatically mean that they were abused by a man. We have to stop thinking the worst-case scenario for every animal reaction. Men are more aggressive by nature. It is in their DNA, and that carries a scent. Men typically also have a deeper voice, a louder presence, are less patient with the young, and have a less nurturing side. Again, not every male - this is a generalization. In the wild, animals typically spend time with their mom, while the male is out and about. They learn to act differently around the Male Alpha- what he says goes. They do not fear men, but it is a different dynamic. The calmer you are around your animal meeting a male human, and the softer the male human is when approaching your animal, the easier that encounter will be.

7- Animals recognize age. They know the difference between a baby, a child, an adult, and an aging being. They naturally are gentle with babies and the elderly, and more rambunctious around kids and young adults. This goes for all species.

Because humans have created this dependency on us, my question is, "Why are we so surprised when some animals are stressed out when we are not home?". We are their pack. We created a system where they rely on us for food, play, elimination breaks, and company. Then we go away, leaving them by themselves for hours on end. We also go on vacations, leaving them in unfamiliar places or at home with someone other than you. Yes, part of their reaction is missing you, but also, their entire structure has been changed. Please be gentle and patient with your animals. Their reactions are normal.

Finally, do not assume that they will be friends with any new animal you bring into the home and automatically think of them as their brother or sister. Like people, they have their own preferences, likes, and dislikes. The new animals may be perfectly fine for you but may not be compatible with your original companion. They will eventually learn to adjust to the new member being there, but they need to work out the dynamics on their own. They may never be "siblings" or "best friends," but they can learn how to share the space. It is our responsibility to make sure they are safe, but we should not micro-manage their relationships.

Animals enrich our lives and bring us unconditional love. They are truly a gift to the human species. As recipients of this beautiful gift, it is our responsibility to keep them safe and healthy, while allowing them the freedom to develop as their species dictates. This does not mean letting them run wild and act crazy. Even animals correct their young when they act out. It means let dogs do dog things. Let cats do cat things. Provide an environment that enriches their lives. Co-habitation means sharing a space that meets everyone's needs. Remember, we share the planet with animals.