Just as when welcoming a new baby, making preparations for a new animal’s arrival will go a long way. Here are some tips for success.

 

·   Disregard set timelines and allow for the animals to open up and relationships to develop naturally.

 

·   Be present instead of forcing interaction. Helping them feel safe by just sitting quietly, being present with them in the room and talking gently to them goes a long way to establish trust.

 

·   Get them acclimated in a smaller space for a week or longer to help them begin to feel safe.

 

·   Use tools to help them adjust, including playing isochronic tones; Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping); Essential Oils; and Bach Flower Essences.

 

·   Exchange scents using a blanket or toy with the new animal’s smell in with the current animal’s and vice-versa.

 

·   Once the animals have settled and accepted each other’s scents, trade territories for a few hours so they can explore comfortably and safely.

 

·   Noticing when there is a shift and when one animal gets too excited or tired or defensive, and separating them right away is key to keeping the peace.

 

·   If we humans are stressed, worried or nervous about their interactions, they will pick up on it.

 

·   Use a professional animal communicator before bringing the new animal into the household to establish peaceful and harmonious relationships.

 

Dawn R. Tule, LCMT, is a professional animal communication counselor and the owner of Mella Luna Healing. For more information, visit MellaLunaStudios.abmp.com.