Shelly from Santa Cruz, CA, asked:
Hi Julie,
I’m new to your show, love your positivity, common sense, and the kind way you speak with people.
Our dog was found by friends in a forested state park, and ever since, I’ve wondered about his origin story. Was he abandoned or did he run away from a previous life? We searched extensively for his former family but never found them.
He struggles with intense separation anxiety and reacts strongly to airplanes, hawks, bicycles, and motorcycles. Sometimes it feels like his nervous system is always on high alert.
What breaks my heart most is how he watches people in cars or approaches families on the beach, almost as if he’s searching, like he’s hoping to recognize someone from before. We call him Barkley. Does he like his name?
Most of all, I want to know if he is truly happy with us. And is there anything you sense regarding his health or well-being?
Any insights would be deeply appreciated.
With gratitude,
Shelly
Hi Shelly,
Thank you for sharing Barkley’s story. I sense he wasn’t intentionally abandoned, more lost than discarded. That kind of sudden separation can leave a sensitive animal on constant alert.
His anxiety and reactions aren’t fear as much as vigilance. He learned early that safety could disappear, so his system stays watchful. When he investigates cars or approaches families, he isn’t wanting to leave you, he’s scanning for familiarity, trying to resolve a memory he can’t fully place.
He understands his name energetically, and now associates Barkley with love, safety, and consistency.
Most importantly, yes, he is happy with you. What comes through strongest is relief. Relief that he’s no longer alone and no longer searching without support.
The only health concern I saw was his right front shoulder looks tender. I did an energetic healing on it. You may want to keep an eye on him for a bit.
His healing is primarily emotional, not physical, and it’s already happening as his nervous system learns this chapter in his life is stable and permanent.
You didn’t just rescue him. You gave him a place to exhale.
Well done!
Hugs,
Julie
