As Thanksgiving approaches, I am very thankful for so many things. I am especially thankful for all of you who have trusted me with your cats, dogs, horses, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds - your precious pets. The bonds we have with our pets are amazing and so rewarding

During most animal communications, the pets tell me how grateful they are for their forever homes and the daily love they receive. Whether they came from a horrible situation or from a wonderful home to their forever home, they are grateful. They talk about their love for their people, their care, and all that is bright in their lives. When I ask about their pasts, they usually are very brief or don't want to talk about it. They live in the present moment - something we all can learn.

Often when I ask a person about their pet, they tell the pet's past story. He came from a rescue; she was abused. Without realizing it, the people are sending the pets back to their previous life. As far as the pets are concerned that life is over. They want to tell the story of their current great lives with wonderful people.

With Thanksgiving, let's tell the stories of our pets as they live with us. Share their stories of their best lives. For example, Hobbes always sleeps in a comfortable leather chair in the morning waiting for his walk. John can make coffee or open the kitchen cabinets for a dish, and Hobbes continues resting. As soon as John opens the refrigerator, Hobbes comes walking into the kitchen. At night, as soon as I head upstairs after about 8 pm, Hobbes runs upstairs to the rug by the bed. He is waiting for his nighttime treat. Sometimes I remind him it's not bed time. When he gets his second night treat, he often tries for a third treat. I put up two fingers and he runs downstairs.

Several years ago, Hobbes told me to stop telling the story of how we got him. Now I say Hobbes' breeder called me about a wonderful one-year old dog. This is the only story everyone needs to hear. They don't need to hear the story of the drama Hobbes experienced. Maybe you can change the story of "She (dog's name) is from a puppy mill" to "The perfect dog (dog's name) found me" and tell a great story of how they bring you joy! Your pet will appreciate it.

May you and your family have a wonderful season of Thanksgiving. Let's spread the gratitude to our daily lives. We all have so much to be thankful for - especially the critters who love us and depend on us so much.