Spooky season is in full swing, meaning there may be some heightened paranormal activity afoot. In fact, a survey conducted by YouGov revealed that two in five Americans believe ghosts are real, while one in five people say they’ve actually encountered one.
The existence of ghosts may be up for debate, but one of the most persistent beliefs is that our animals can sense spirits or paranormal activity. We’ve all witnessed the scene in scary movies or TV shows, when the tiny dog barks at the door but no one is there. Sure, the movie may be fake, but many pet owners have noticed their dog or cat do the same in real life.
Of course, there’s only one thought that enters a pet owner’s mind when this occurs – that their animal is obviously interacting with a ghost. To set the record straight, we spoke with two animal communicators – aka, pet psychics – to learn whether our animals are really channeling the other side.
Why do we believe our pets can see ghosts in the first place? According to Phoebe Hoffman, an animal communicator and intuitive guide based in New York City, it has a lot to do with their heightened senses.
“Pets are living off of energy, whether it’s our energy or energy that we are not privy to, because we’re so limited in our senses compared to them,” Hoffman tells us. “Now, can I say that what they’re seeing is ghosts? I don’t know that because I’ve never seen a ghost. I’m not seeing what they’re seeing, but I’ve had many experiences with my own animals – which happen to be cats – where they are having an absolute moment with something that’s there that only they can witness.”
It goes without saying that animals have senses that are unknown to humans. When it comes to our beloved canines, dogs have the ability to hear much higher-pitched noises than their owners. The average adult human can’t hear sounds above 20,000 Hertz (Hz), while dogs can hear sounds as high as 47,000 to 65,000 Hz, per the American Kennel Club.
Meanwhile, cats are known to have great eyesight, especially in the dark. According to Texas A&M University, felines can dilate their pupils in low-light settings and they have a special reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum, which can reflect more light to the back of the eye.
“Non-human animals sense things in different ways than humans do. Cats, for instance, the way they see things is different from the way humans see things. Their eyesight is different, they can definitely perceive energies that we can’t or things that aren’t visible to the human eye,” Olivia LaBarre, an animal communicator and Reiki specialist based in NYC, tells us. “Most of the animals I communicate with have increased senses beyond the five senses.”
But what about those undeniable moments when our dog or cat appears to be reacting – or interacting – with something we can’t see? When they begin to bark or meow at nothing visible, stand in the corner, play with an object that belonged to a deceased family member, or assume behaviours that are characteristic of a former pet? For LaBarre – who’s been an animal communicator and grief worker for five years – her clients have noticed that, after one of their pets dies, their living animal will even start taking on some of the behaviours of the animal who passed.
When these moments occur, it’s important to look out for certain signs or signals that your dog or cat’s behaviour has suddenly shifted. This can look like playing with something that isn’t there, tilting their head, arching their back, or wagging their tail.
As for what pet owners should do when they believe their beloved animal is interacting with a ghost, experts agree to just sit back and let it happen. “Allow it, observe it, and just pay attention because it might be about you. Humans are very unaware of the mysteries of the universe. Animals, they’re tapped in. They are aware that energy doesn’t die,” says Hoffman. “Just let it happen. It’s not a bad thing.”
However, there could be the slight off chance that a poltergeist from the next Paranormal Activity instalment just so happens to be living in your kitchen. Then, of course, it’s time to call in the experts… or an exorcist.
Our pets’ heightened senses – and sometimes their silly, quirky, and erratic behaviour – has played into the belief that dogs and cats can see ghosts. Still, there’s much uncertainty about whether this long-standing superstition is actually true.
“We are so limited in our ability to see what the naked eye cannot see. Animals have this window into watching spirits and energy,” says Hoffman. “But as far as a ghost? That I don’t know, but I know they’re seeing something.”
Although it continues to be a mystery whether our pets’ senses are able to pick up on energies or spirits, pay close attention to your dog or cat this spooky season. Who knows what life forms will be lurking this Halloween?
“Homeless but Not Alone: Dog’s Devotion to Owner Warms Hearts Amidst Difficult Circumstances”
In the bustling heart of the city, where the rhythm of life beats loudly and the struggles of the less fortunate are often drowned out by the urban cacophony, there exists an extraordinary bond between a homeless man and his faithful canine companion, a bond that has touched the hearts of millions.
Meet Jack, a man who fell through the cracks of society, finding himself without a home, without comfort, and without hope. His days were filled with uncertainty, and his nights were spent seeking refuge wherever he could find it. But amidst the harsh realities of life on the streets, there was one constant source of solace and unwavering love – his loyal dog, Buddy.
Buddy, a scrappy yet endearing mixed breed, became Jack’s lifeline in the sea of despair. Their story was not just one of a man and his pet; it was a testament to the transformative power of companionship and unconditional love. Despite the dire circumstances they faced, Buddy remained by Jack’s side, offering him warmth on cold nights and companionship in moments of solitude.
As the seasons changed and years passed, Jack and Buddy’s story began to spread. News of their unwavering bond traveled through the city, resonating with the hearts of compassionate individuals who were moved by their plight. Communities came together, offering support in various forms – warm meals, blankets, and, most importantly, a glimmer of hope. Their tale became a symbol of resilience, teaching people that love knows no bounds, transcending social status, and reminding us all of the simple, yet profound, joy that a loyal companion can bring.
One winter, as the city was blanketed in snow, a local shelter took notice of Jack and Buddy’s story. Touched by their unwavering companionship, they offered Jack a place to stay, a warm bed, and a fresh start. Jack was hesitant at first, reluctant to leave the only life he knew, but he realized that this opportunity could provide a better future not just for him but also for Buddy.
The transition from the streets to a shelter was not without its challenges. Jack, unused to the structured environment, struggled to adapt. Yet, through it all, Buddy remained his steadfast anchor, his furry confidant who provided comfort in the face of change. With the support of the shelter’s dedicated staff and volunteers, Jack began to rebuild his life. He attended counseling sessions, acquired new skills, and slowly regained his confidence.
Buddy, too, flourished in this new environment. He became a beloved presence within the shelter, bringing smiles to the faces of residents and staff alike. His wagging tail and playful antics served as a reminder of the transformative power of love, inspiring others to adopt pets and foster the same bond that he shared with Jack.
The tale of Jack and Buddy reached far beyond the confines of the shelter and the city. News outlets picked up their story, and soon, they became a symbol of hope for the homeless community worldwide. Donations poured in to support shelters and organizations dedicated to helping both people and their pets, reinforcing the idea that no one should ever be without a home, human or otherwise.
Their journey was not without its challenges, but it was a testament to the enduring power of love, friendship, and second chances. Jack and Buddy’s story became a beacon of hope, illuminating the darkest corners of society and reminding us all that compassion and empathy can transform lives.
As the years passed, Jack found stable employment and eventually secured a modest home. Buddy, now a senior dog, continued to be his faithful companion, reminding him daily of the resilience they shared and the unwavering bond that had stood the test of time. Together, they visited schools and shelters, sharing their story and inspiring others to never lose hope, no matter how dire their circumstances might seem.
In the end, the tale of Jack and Buddy became more than just a story; it became a legacy, a reminder etched into the hearts of millions, urging them to see the humanity in every individual, regardless of their situation. Their journey served as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the extraordinary capacity of animals to bring comfort, joy, and love into our lives.
And so, in the quiet moments of reflection, as Jack looked into Buddy’s loyal eyes, he knew that their story was not just their own – it was a beacon of light that had shone brightly, guiding others out of the darkness and into the embrace of compassion, understanding, and love. Together, they had taught the world that even in the face of adversity, the bond between a man and his dog could ignite a spark of hope, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
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