When Listening Changes Everything: A Pet’s Voice, A Family’s Choice
Magdalen was no stranger to understanding emotions. As a BPS-accredited counselling psychologist, she had spent years supporting others through life’s complexities. But when it came to her beloved dog, Guinness, she found herself navigating unfamiliar and heartbreaking terrain. Guinness, a four-year-old Labradoodle, was diagnosed with a terminal illness, leaving Magdalen searching for clarity, comfort, and answers.
In her search, Magdalen discovered animal communication and reached out to me for support. She later shared that she had come across my videos on YouTube and felt drawn to my approach. This was her first experience with animal communication, but her openness to exploring this connection marked the beginning of a transformative journey.
A Deep Bond and a Heartfelt Request
Magdalen’s initial message to me captured the depth of her relationship with Guinness:
“I’d like to tell Guinness that I will miss her so much. She’s been a big part of our growing family, and I treat her just like my daughter. I will miss giving her hugs and kisses every day. It pains me to have to let her go sooner than I thought. It’s on my mind every day, wondering if she’s relapsed and if she’s going to eat well today. The thought of that day coming scares me, but I also want to spend the remaining time with her in the most meaningful way possible.”
Magdalen also had specific questions she wanted me to ask Guinness:
- How does your body feel now?
- How do you feel about leaving me?
- Before you leave, what memories would you like of us?
- How would you like me to know when it’s the right time to let you leave?
- What would you like to leave me with, and what would you like me to leave you with when you leave?
Her message reflected a profound desire to honour Guinness’s voice in the decisions ahead.
The First Consultation: A Perspective Shift
It was in September 2024 when I connected with Guinness for her first consultation. Her calmness and wisdom immediately stood out. She reassured me she was not in pain but described her energy as "ebbing away gently." Despite her diagnosis, Guinness remained fully present, finding joy in life’s simple pleasures, such as the taste of moist foods and the comfort of touch. Her message to Magdalen was clear:“There’s no rush. Let’s take it one day at a time.”
This consultation was pivotal for Magdalen. She shifted her mindset from viewing Guinness through the lens of a terminal prognosis to appreciating the moments they still had together. Inspired by our session, Magdalen sought additional holistic support, finding a local acupuncturist and introducing Traditional Chinese Medicine herbs into Guinness’s care plan. These steps were not just about extending time but enhancing Guinness’s quality of life.
A Birthday and a Change
Weeks later, Magdalen updated me:
“Thanks for checking in. Since we last chatted, Guinness has been well. The acupuncture is going well, and I started her on TCM herbs too. She’s her usual self. It was Guinness’s 4th birthday last Friday. I’m just glad she’s still with me and got to spend her 4th with us. Oh, and I’ve seen a change in Guinness. She’s so much more vocal these days with her food and coming into the room with me. I’ve not seen that side of her before.”
Her vocalisation made me smile. It was as though Guinness was expressing her emotions more openly, knowing her mum could "hear" her on a deeper level. This shift in their relationship was a testament to the power of listening.
The Second Consultation: A Turning Point
On 19th November, I received a message from Magdalen:
“Guinness is ill again. She started vomiting yesterday and has no energy. We brought her to the hospital for an ultrasound. I’m so sad, but we’ve had to make the difficult decision to put her down in the following days. We are just making plans now for her to say goodbye to the people who have loved her so much.”
During this second consultation, Guinness’s message was unmistakably clear.“There’s no need to rush,” she told me. Guinness reassured Magdalen that she wasn’t in pain and spoke of the happiness she felt having her at home more often. She even mentioned the recent visits from friends. What Magdalen had arranged as a farewell gathering, Guinness experienced as a joyful, social event. “I love seeing everyone,” she shared. “It's not goodbye to me; it's love.”
Magdalen also sought guidance about whether her toddler should be present to say goodbye.“I’m torn,” she admitted. “She’s too young to understand, but I also don’t want her to feel like Guinness just disappeared.” Guinness’s response was as thoughtful as ever. She suggested creating a ritual for Magdalen’s daughter to say goodbye beforehand - perhaps a drawing or a card. “Goodbyes are as important as hellos,” Guinness shared. “Let her know it’s okay to let go.”
I drew on my training with the Animal Hospice Group and shared this insight with Magdalen. I encouraged her to monitor Guinness closely and to discuss her intentions with her vet, emphasising that as long as Guinness was comfortable, there was no need to rush. Magdalen chose to wait and let Guinness guide the process.
An Unexpected Update
The day after our consultation, Magdalen messaged me:
“Thank you so much for yesterday’s session. It meant so much to me to be reminded that Guinness can be on this decision-making journey with me in her last days. I’m not alone in this.”
Weeks later, she shared incredible news:
“We just brought Guinness for a checkup, and the doctor is very pleased with her progress. There is no more bleeding in the abdomen. The blood work is perfect. And the best news: the tumour around the liver has shrunk a little. The doctor says it’s strange because she wasn’t expecting it. I’m so, so glad I spoke to you again during that period and didn’t put her down prematurely. Thank you so, so much”
Reflections
Guinness’s story is a testament to the resilience of the spirit and the power of connection. She taught us that even in the face of terminal illness, life can still hold joy, meaning, and love. Magdalen’s courage to listen and trust - both in herself and in Guinness’s guidance - created a legacy of love that will stay with her forever.
Our pet companions have decision-making capacity. Their views on end-of-life care are vital to receive so that decisions are made as a family, together with veterinarians and holistic practitioners. Building a support team ensures that both pets and their humans feel cared for and understood in such tender times.
As an animal communicator, it’s moments like these that reaffirm why I do what I do. Helping pet parents navigate the complexities of end-of-life care is one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of this work. It’s not about providing answers but about creating a space where clarity and connection can unfold. Through these conversations, we honour the lives of our animals and deepen the bonds we share with them.
Closing Thoughts
Guinness’s message to us all is clear: listen, honour, and cherish. Through her calm wisdom, she taught us that life is about the moments we create together, even when facing the unknown.
For pet parents navigating similar journeys, Guinness’s story highlights the importance of listening to what our animals need. If you’re facing a difficult decision or simply want to connect more deeply with your pet, know that support is available. For those who feel called to offer this work to others, the rewards of animal communication are immeasurable. If this story resonates with you, I invite you to explore how we can work together to make a difference in the lives of animals and their humans.
Contact me to book a consultation or learn more about mentorship opportunities.
Acknowledgement
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Magdalen and Guinness for graciously allowing me to share their journey. Their courage, trust, and willingness to open their hearts and story serve as a testament to the profound bond we share with our animal companions. The photos included in this article beautifully capture their love and connection, offering inspiration and hope to others navigating similar paths.