Animal Insights

The Edge of Reality - Where Majick Lives!

The Majick of the Wolf


Most people are so tied up in their lives, they just don't take the time to observe the world around them. Part of my chosen career as an Animal Psychologist is doing just that, so I take time to observe.

At one time people lived closer to the natural world and therefore recognized that they were an integral part of all of Nature. The Natural and the Supernatural merged and blended. People talked to animals and listened to their messages. This belief system is alive today and still teaches that all things are connected. The path which has been hidden and overgrown through lack of use is being re-discovered. Animals are messengers, intelligent beings with the ability to teach humans and become important friends and companions. All that is needed is our awareness and ability to communicate and interact in a positive and responsible manner.

I thought a visit with a wolf might be interesting during this cold time of the year. Wolves are probably one of the most misunderstood of all wild animals. You have most likely heard stories of terror, bloodcurdling violence and evil associated with Wolves. Let me speak clearly to you about this. I have met many full blooded wolves and never have I been even the least bit fearful of them. They are intelligent, beautiful and very family oriented. There has never been any confirmed attack or killing of a human by a healthy, full blooded Wolf. Every Wolf I have ever met has been friendly, spirited, intelligent and quite capable of reading the person they are introduced to. Their sense of family is powerful, loving and loyal. Wolves are very rule oriented and respect convention and pack leadership. They are gentle teachers and guardians. Did you know the January Full Moon is named the Wolf Moon.

I received a call from a young woman who was quite concerned. She had a wolf-hybrid and was having a real problem with him. She had bought the Wolf as a pup about a year before and was quite bonded to him. He had always been a happy-go-lucky type who loved everyone and found friends everywhere they went. My client had worked with her Wolf, socialized him and let him know she was the Leader of the Pack in natural, gentle ways.

She called because he had suddenly changed temperament. She explained that he "hated" her new boyfriend. She realized jealousy could play a part in this scene and had worked to develop a positive relationship with her boyfriend and her Wolf. It wasn't working.

When I walked into the house, Zandar, the Wolf, walked over to me, his eyes deeply troubled. Zandar was gentle, friendly and so sad it was heart-breaking. I watched as my client, Bonnie, sat down and put her arm over his shoulder. This was a warm and friendly relationship. Zandar knew Bonnie was the Alpha and he was happy and pleased in this setting. We went out, met friends and neighbors, which delighted Zandar. He played with the children, yet came immediately when Bonnie called to him.

Then a car came around the corner, Zandar looked quickly at Bonnie and lowered his head. Depression and tension set in. Bonnie's boyfriend pulled into the driveway. Not only had Zandar changed, but so had Bonnie. This secure, outgoing, friendly woman became quiet, unsure, passive, compliant and submissive. Rob stepped out of the car, glared at Bonnie and asked in a threatening manner, "What's going on?". She explained that I was observing Zandar and was going to help them work with him. Rob grabbed Zandar by the collar and jerked him roughly. He announced that Zandar was a "wimp" and needed some tough handling. Zandar growled but Bonnie pleaded with him to be quiet. I told Rob that was not the way to handle any animal and that he was being cruel and domineering and behaving in a negative manner. I explained that there are ways to become Leader of the Pack with love and understanding. He rejected all my comments, swearing he walked away.

I explained to Bonnie that she had changed her demeanor as had Zandar only in relation to Rob and that Rob was not trying to become a fair Leader of the Pack to Zandar or a respected partner to her. With Rob's present attitude, I felt Zandar had handled himself quite remarkably. I felt his respect for Bonnie had kept him from attacking a person who, in my opinion, needed straightening out. I told Bonnie not to let Rob handle Zandar in that rough, hateful manner any more. She said she would try, but I felt a sinking feeling that both she and Zandar were in for some difficult moments.

About 2 months went by before she called. She asked if I could go get Zandar from her home and take him to her Veterinarians office for her. She was in the hospital being stitched up from an attack by Rob. Rob had beaten her for mouthing off to him. He had demanded that Bonnie lock Zandar in the bathroom for barking at him (so Zandar couldn't protect her). Then Rob began to hit her. Bonnie had never been abused or hit before and was shocked by the violent attack. According to her, she had put up with his aggressive behavior because she was 32 years old and had not found "Mr. Right" yet. Rob was very attractive, funny and popular with his friends. She felt he would relax if she could get Zandar to comply with his training techniques and demands.

Rob spent some time locked up and was forever out of Bonnie's life. It took about 6 months for Zandar to re-build a real natural trust with tall dark haired men however. Had Bonnie been really communicating with her friend and Wolf companion, she would have seen, as I did, the danger inherent in Robs mannerisms right from the start.

What were the Lessons Zandar was trying to teach Bonnie?

The Wolf has a capacity for making quick, firm, emotional decisions. Learning to trust and be secure in your own insights is a part of what Wolf Medicine teaches. Wolf can help you hear the inner voice and guard you from inappropriate actions. Wolf Medicine protects you as it teaches, sometimes gently, sometimes strongly - but always with love.

1) Don't panic, life is better if you are yourself and not having to be stressed.

2) Learn from your experiences. Think and really look at what is happening.

3) Realize that negativity and threats are not the way to gain control.

4) Don't be needy in a relationship. Be aware of your feelings and actions. Know when to assert your beliefs and say "NO!".

5) Realize that dominance, demands and threats do not spell Love. Know that love should make you happy not leave you feeling unempowered and sad.

When Wolf walks with you, it is time to find a new Path. Take control of your life. Do so with harmony and self-discipline, then you will walk in the true spirit of freedom.

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This page created by Kay Cox - The Pet Counselor/ Animal Psychologist
Copyright Kay Cox 1996 - revised 2006