Kirstie had emailed me before booking our recent Call explaining:- “Ruby is on great form these days but we still have one issue and wonder if you can help us again. My old cat, Basil, died very peacefully in February aged 20. Ruby was distraught for some time. I still have my other cat Cinnamon, but even though she tries Ruby can’t stop herself chasing him. They do want to be friends, lots of blinking at each other when stationary but as soon as Cinnamon moves Ruby chases. I’ve never had a dog that chases cats and I find it upsetting. I am wondering is it possible for you to have a conversation between them? I’m not sure if you can do this but it’s worth a try?……. It would be so lovely to have them settled in the same room for once! Ruby is such a joy to be with these days and it’s all because of the help and insights you’ve given us.”
Here are her subsequent reflections:-
How was your call helpful?
Yes it was reassuring to know that, intuitively I’m on the right track with Ruby and Cinnamon.
Was it what you expected?
Yes because I’ve had calls regularly with Ruby
What were you most surprised by?
How delighted and excited Ruby was to again have the chance to express herself through Rachael.
What was the most valuable aspect of your call?
The reassurance that my cat is content and understands the situation well. It was good to hear they both understood that my old cat died peacefully. It was really interesting to hear how each of them experienced the grief differently.
Has your equine or animal’s behaviour changed following the call?
Yes definitely. The following two mornings after the call, Ruby came and sat quietly in the room with Cinnamon and I. They were both relaxed and aware of each other.
Also a few times Ruby has been in the kitchen and she’s heard Cinnamon moving about. It’s hard for her but she’s managed to stay still without me having to tell her. She looks at me to see if she’s doing the right thing.
Has your relationship changed as a result?
Yes I feel a deeper bond with both of them. I’m more relaxed about how Cinnamon is feeling and he seems to really appreciate being listened to and has become more affectionate and communicative. The bond with Ruby just gets stronger all the time. She tries so hard to be good.
What could I change or do to improve my call service?
It’s excellent as it is.
A potential client is on the fence about whether to have a call with me; what would you say to them?
Definitely give it a try. Your animal will really appreciate the fact you wanted to listen and understand them.
Is there anything else that you’d like to tell me that I haven’t asked about?
I’m just so glad to have this level of understanding with Ruby and now Cinnamon is included we feel all is well and they can learn to live alongside one another more harmoniously. Thank you!
This morning I was out in the field with Ruby and didn’t realise Cinnamon was lying in the long grass. He meowed to say he was there, then got up and rubbed his body along Ruby’s like he used to with my previous dog. He then casually walked away towards the fence with Ruby following but not chasing. He popped through the fence to safety and I think all three of us were so pleased! This was a huge achievement for both of them. I was so delighted.
Update a month later:- Ruby and Cinnamon are doing so well, there has been a few times they have been chilling out in the same room, both aware the other is there but ignoring each other. Plus there has been no chasing since our phone call, even outside Ruby just trotted past Cinnamon this morning. We are all delighted!
