Ask Your Pet

Dear Jennifer,

My dog passed away recently, and I’m planning to adopt a new dog soon. Do you have any advice for finding the right dog? Is there any way you could help me if we did an animal communication session?

Thank you,

Alva

Dear Alva,

I’m very sorry for your loss and happy that you’re ready to open your heart to a new dog. Many of my tips are common sense. It’s helpful that you’re an experienced dog parent, because while every dog is different, you have a good idea of what to expect in terms of daily life, veterinary care, finances, etc.

My first recommendation would be to picture in your mind what you want your next dog to be like. For example, if you’re sitting on the sofa on a Saturday night, is there a small dog cuddled on your lap, or a larger dog snuggled next to you? Do you see yourself getting up during the night to take a puppy out for a potty break and helping it with basic training, or would you like a dog that’s a bit older and already doing well with some of those basics? Do you want a mellow dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise, or an energetic dog to accompany you on hikes and other adventures? Is your living space and outdoor environment suited to an energetic dog?

I’d go through all of those questions and more before you start looking for your next buddy. Once you have an idea of the size, age, and temperament of the dog you’ll be looking for, I’d start looking at rescue sites online. Petfinder.com can be a great resource. If you have a specific breed in mind, then you can of course look for breed-specific rescue groups. You may find a dog you fall in love with online, or a particular rescue group that has multiple appealing candidates. The next step would of course be to meet them in person, ask the adoption counselor or foster parents any questions you have, and see if you feel a connection to any of the dogs you meet. Do you feel particularly pulled to any of them? Do you feel an instant or deep connection? Is there a dog that seems pulled to you? If so, how do you feel about that dog? It’s hard to describe, but the dog that’s meant for you will just feel right to you; it will feel like your dog.

Regarding whether I can help, in an intuitive coaching session/s we could work on narrowing down what you’re truly desiring in your next dog, and help you develop your own intuition, so you can connect with the dogs you meet at a deeper level. If you meet a prospect but are unsure, schedule-permitting I could do a session with the dog to help you both decide if you’re the right fit. And, after you adopt, I can help you and the dog with integrating, and any other concerns or issues you might have.

Many Blessings,

Jennifer Dickman

Jennifer Dickman is an Animal Communicator, Intuitive Coach, Reiki Master-Teacher, and Animal Reiki Specialist. She conducts sessions worldwide via phone, video, and email. Please contact her at jennifer_dickman@ymail.com, www.JenniferDickman.com, and follow her on Instagram @JenniferDickmanOne, and her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healingpetlosswithanimalcommunication