Beschrijving
This book is about:
– Thirteen points helping you to a better understanding of your animal companion
– An animal behaviourist reveals her thirteen secrets
Inge Pauwels says of these thirteen principles “ these thoughts offer a way of finding a natural way of sharing our lives with those of our animals. They are also a plea, calling on people to respect animals and to learn the lessons of life. Via Animal Reflection, Animal Communication and Power animals we can learn so much by really seeing their behaviour and body language. We need to be open to the animal mirror, looking, listening and learning.” Inge is addressing herself to those who remain open minded in their approach to life.The book is written in the masculine form but everything applies to both male and female animals.
Inge thinks in rather convoluted ways at times but her thoughts lead her unerringly to one main route. When you follow her lessons or read her books you need to follow her through the mass of information and ideas she throws at you, until it becomes clear in your own mind. If you give up before you reach the end you will miss out and never reach that final goal and that is well worth all of the effort.
You can see these thirteen tips as just that, something to think about or maybe as a talking point for a discussion but also certainly something you can use and try in your relationship with your own animal(s). A relationship based on mutual respect for each other’s individuality. A way of living with (domestic) animals.
Inge has written several books in Dutch, Italian, Portugees and in English.
For more information www.toscanzahoeve.be or www.animalreflection.com
You can order the book in this shop or at http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/ingepauwels
Contents:
1 Animal Reflection – to know your animal is to know yourself
By looking more closely at our animals we come to a better understanding of ourselves. You get honest feedback and insight about how you are dealing with life and your (un)conscious feelings.
- A holistic viewpoint – Back to Basics
Not a black and white – one size fits all approach but a view that looks at the whole and the cause (not just the symptoms), taking into account the environment, nature and the inner self of the individual.
- To be civilised is to have respect for the animal kingdom… vote for animal rights.
Animals are living beings and have rights whether or not they are of use to mankind. Lend your voice to the animals so that people can hear them.
- An animal is neither a product nor a mechanical device. Anyone who still labours under this delusion requires enlightenment.
An animal is not a device, they have real emotions and cannot therefore be considered as mere objects.
- Reward and encourage desired behaviour, ignore or punish unwanted behaviour in a way that the animal understands.
Mutual respect is the basis for communication and training. Remember there are two sides to every coin, both equal in merit. Use the language of the animals.
- Allow an animal to be itself within the limits imposed by our society and take responsibility for your animal’s health and welfare. Your concern for your animal is a measure of your own worth.
Respect the basic needs of your animal companion: territory, hunting instinct, sexual drive and social contact, these basic needs are the driving forces that motivate your animal’s behaviour. Put physical, emotional and social well being first and foremost!
- Every animal follows its own learning curve. Individuality must be respected. Friendship and becoming partners is important and with mutual respect much can be achieved.
When we are working with animals everything comes down to trust, respect, emotions, motivation, the learning process and distribution of basic tasks. The animal must be open to humans and happy in its environment. Training is best done in a relaxed manner with respect for the needs of the animal and taking care to honour the mutual bond between you. This will promote learning in a way that force can never do.
- Animals live in the present tense, in the here and now
Enjoy life, guilt free, open minded and conscious of the moment you are living now.
- Be a true coach and a natural leader for animals. Are you able to be as altruistic as they are? Build a partnership instead of attempting to tame, dictate and use force. Be a good parent but one deserving of respect.
- Your animal is a foreigner with its own language and habits and customs. Be a guide and an interpreter for animals.
- If you can train a terrier type (character) you can train anything.
Mutual respect and appreciation of the individual identity of the animal must always be the basis of any contact. Choose an animal that is compatible with your own character.
- When we talk about professional training the key word has to be education. Learning how to fish is more important than just catching a fish. Are you or do you aspire to be a real professional and not just a ‘wanna be?’ Are we living in Hollywood or in the real world? What counts? Your own ego or really making a difference to an animal? Are you an animal lover? Take responsibility for yourself and your decisions.
- Undesirable behaviour is not always problem behaviour. It all depends on your point of view.
It is all a question of communication. Never trust your pet to guard your sandwich!
