Soulful Crossroads: My Unanticipated Journey into Responsible Rehoming

Pet Loss & GriefAnimal Communication Tips

Jan. 12

In the realm of animal communication, where understanding and connection transcend spoken words, my journey took an unexpected turn. As an animal communicator, I've guided countless pet parents through the emotional labyrinth of responsible rehoming. Little did I know that one day, I'd find myself standing at the crossroads of this challenging decision, faced with the heart-wrenching choice to rehome my own cherished companion.

Soulstice is my dog of love and lessons. Our paths intertwined during the messiest chapter of my life— navigating the palliative care and eventual death of my mom. Soulstice came into my life when I faced some of my darkest corners of grief. Together, we embarked on a journey of healing and discovery.

As an animal communicator, I am used to addressing any challenge. Yet, life has a way of always reminding us of our humanness. Soulstice, a beautiful soul (I called her my soul dog- she has connected me deeper to my soul), came with a traumatic past and entered my life during her puppyhood after having had puppies herself at eight months. Little did I realize that our connection, while profound, would be a step in each other's journey rather than a final destination.

Our adventure led us to move from the rural mountains to 3 moves before we moved to the city—a transition that proved overwhelming for Soulstice. Her struggles persisted despite my unwavering dedication and attempts to provide support, communication and love. Reactive to dogs in the city and anxious, I felt she yearned for the companionship she knew coming from growing up on a reservation in the company of other dogs and in our previous home hanging out with our neighbour’s dog, her BFF Dexter. The city's constant stimuli became a source of distress for her, and our challenges escalated despite agility and scent work classes.

The turning point arrived during this holiday season as I prepared to spend time with my dad 2.0 and brought Soulstice to my friends and Dexter in Golden, our former home. They sent me a photo ( photo right of the blog) a few days into her stay that captured the essence of their bond, spooning like two peas in a pod. My heart swayed between melting and breaking as I faced a nagging truth I couldn't ignore.

I found myself in a moment of soul-searching, staring at that photo. Despite all my skills, knowledge, and the love I poured into Soulstice's life, there was a missing piece. I often joked that to fulfill her need for constant canine companionship. I should transform into a dog myself—an impossible feat. The reality was stark: Soulstice needed more than I could humanly provide.

In a vulnerable conversation with my friends, I proposed a forever home for Soulstice with them. Dexter, her steadfast buddy, offered a sense of safety that I couldn't replicate. With the small town, they could provide the stability and less stimuli she craved. The decision was heart-wrenching, but it was the one I knew I needed to face.

Guilt, doubt and the looming feeling of failure crept in. As an animal communicator, shouldn't I have been able to make it work? The answer, however, was in seeing the bigger picture. Soulstice's well-being, her chance to thrive authentically, and finally be the dog she needed to be outweighed me, my ego and my heart. The layers of grief intertwined with deep love, a mix I often witness in the stories and experiences of loss, now enveloped me.

Our journey, heartbreaking, is a lesson in deeper humility and love. In our two years together, Soulstice became my guide to further my trauma knowledge and work, unveiling more layers of trauma understanding in both animals and humans and the part it plays in our relationships. She reminded me that true integrity means making tough decisions honestly when things aren't working and, most importantly, letting go with love. I know this pain and heartache that I have helped many clients through. I also know the joy of finding the right home and knowing she is finally home within herself by having Dexter by her side.

This blog isn't just a tale of rehoming; it's a testament to the intricate dance of love and respect for one another that exists in our relationships, the level of love and how sometimes that means needing to face loss and let go. Even though I was armed with the ability to communicate with animals, I faced the reality that some connections are beyond communication and species and that we are steps in one another’s journey. Soulstice's story, my story, is a reminder that, in the intricate tapestry of life, no matter how difficult some journeys are, we are always blessed for the time together and may not always be the final destination.

May my story offer solace to those who, like me, have navigated the complexities of responsible rehoming, reminding you we are all on our individual journeys with the beloved pets in our lives.

Do You Need Support in Your Situation?

Finding understanding and support is essential during the challenging choice of responsibly rehoming your beloved animal. As a certified grief specialist, I offer Grief Support Sessions tailored to provide you with the compassionate support you need and learn the messages from your pet as you navigate your rehoming journey.