Annie Bourke on In Fur and in Spirit: The Wisdom of Animals Across Lifetimes

If you’re lucky enough to be an animal parent, there are some beautiful truths your beloved companions would love for you to hear—messages they’ve shared with me through telepathic communication.

First and foremost: your animals understand everything you say. Truly. They may not speak with words the way we do, but they feel the energy, tone, and intent behind every syllable. With their own free will, they choose how to respond—and they often do so in remarkable ways. Many animals have surprisingly extensive vocabularies and may even use expressions from times long past, especially if they’ve lived before in other eras. Like us, they have distinct voices, tones, and even accents. Some sing, others laugh, and all of them shine with unique personalities—whether they’re with us in the physical or in spirit.

One of the simplest and most powerful ways to deepen your connection with your animal is to talk to them—out loud—every single day. They love hearing your voice. They know you love them, but telling them—actually saying, “I love you”—is profoundly healing for them, as “love” is one of the highest vibrational words we can speak.

Animals are deeply sensitive to the frequency of language. When choosing a name or nickname for your pet, be mindful of what it may feel like to them. Even when said playfully, a name with a negative or mocking tone can be received as hurtful over time. It’s always a good idea to ask your animal if they have a name preference—they often do, and many will offer a few options if you listen closely.

While you're learning to tune into them telepathically (something we all naturally did as children), animals rely on body language, eye contact, sounds, and subtle changes in behaviour to communicate. They're incredibly intelligent and resourceful, often trying to get your attention by altering their routines—like bathroom habits—not out of naughtiness, but because they need to tell you something. Pay attention. Observe them. Listen closely. They’re speaking in their own way.

Many of our animal companions have shared previous lives with us. It’s not unusual for the soul of a childhood pet—or even a loved one in human form—to return in a new body. That deep, inexplicable bond you feel? It may span lifetimes. Reincarnation is one of the most extraordinary things animals have taught me. Sometimes they return looking just as they did before; other times they may come back as a different species altogether. But your heart will know them. They often remember details of your shared past lives—what country you lived in, who they were, what you did together. I’ve had animals describe lives as flamenco dancers, soldiers, and artists. And when I’ve researched their stories, they’ve always been historically accurate. Truly amazing.

Animals also take on sacred roles in our lives—as teachers, healers, protectors, and companions. They can sense when you’re unwell or struggling emotionally. They’ll nuzzle in close, do something silly to make you laugh, or quietly stay by your side. Their love for you is unconditional, and they want nothing more than for you to be happy and well.

When an animal passes, the grief can feel unbearable. How do you mend a broken heart? How do you cope with the silence, the absence, the ache? It’s important to know: our animals grieve too. They don’t want to leave us. But after going through their own healing process in spirit, many return—energetically, emotionally, and sometimes even physically, for a short while. People often see, hear, or feel their beloved animals again—footsteps across the bed, a familiar bark or purr, or the unmistakable feeling of a gentle nudge. These visitations are real. They bring comfort to both the animals and the humans they love. If your animal’s soul is not meant to reincarnate again, they may still guide a new animal to you—a soul they know will help you heal. And please know: bringing a new animal into your life is never a betrayal. Your departed animal understands. They know your heart. They want you to love again.

For those who adopt rescue animals, the journey can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. These animals often carry emotional wounds and may be healing from trauma we can’t fully imagine. Loud voices, sudden movements, or being left alone can trigger old fears. Many struggle with feelings of abandonment or low self-worth. It’s vital to be patient and gentle. Tell them, often, that they are safe, they are loved, and they are home—forever. When you leave the house, let them know where you’re going, what you’re doing, and when you’ll be back. These simple reassurances can ease their anxiety more than you realise.

Above all, understand that your animals are sentient, spiritual beings with a depth of emotion, wisdom, and love that goes beyond words. The more you learn about them, the more your relationship will blossom. Speak with them. Listen with your heart. Honour the connection.

Because to them, you are their world.