Visiting this web site requires a newer version of Netscape Communicator.
Visit Microsoft's Web site to obtain the newest version of Internet Explorer, or visit Netscape's Web site to obtain the newest version of Netscape Communicator.
Visiting this web site without first upgrading your browser may result in unreliable behavior.
Note: This is the third in a series entitled “Answering the Call of the Wild.” You can read the beginning under the Articles section on this website. In Part 1 I struggled to understand what a wolf in the Woodland Park Zoo was trying to communicate to me. In Part 2 I tell the story of "Two Wolves" and "The Wolf and the Mesa Stone."
If I had a quarter for every time I have been asked if my dog, Puma, is part wolf I would have a tidy sum.
I always answer, “Not as far as I know.” My best guess is he is an Anatolian shepherd/Malamute cross. But, being a shelter dog with no known history adopted from a shelter in a rural area of Montana, he could be any manner of mixes including wolf.
Not long after I adopted him I was awoken in the night by stampeding cats and an unearthly sound that seemed to come from all directions, filling my living space. It was a primeval wolf howl, something my urban cats, who had never set foot in the wilderness, instinctively seemed to recognize as danger.
Wiping the sleep from my eyes I realized that we had not suddenly been transported during the night to the woods; Puma, head hanging over the edge of his dog bed, was howling in his sleep. The wooden floors made a perfect sounding board, carrying his vocals throughout the house. And impressive vocals they were. Up until that point I had not realized he made any sounds at all as he never barked.
Several days later I decided to try an experiment. Dragging out an old album, "The Language and Music of the Wolves” narrated by Robert Redford, I put on a track of the pack joining their voices in a group howl.
Puma’s ears went up, and with head cocked, he listened carefully for a moment. Then, tilting his head back and closing his eyes, he joined in, full-throated and beautifully voiced, his howl was an awesome sound to hear. The cats were less thrilled, this time they did not ricochet off the walls, but they certainly did give me the stinkeye!
He carried on for a few moments more, and then stopped, embarrassed. I praised him for his voice, but he seemed to feel that he had done something uncivilized and declined to give voice anymore that time. From time to time I repeated the impromptu concert opportunity, feeling that it was something he needed to express and that I wanted to share with him. I would often join my voice with his to share in the experience and to help him feel that it was okay. By this time the cats ignored us.
One warm, early summer evening in urban Alki, I felt inspired to prompt a pack howl. Putting the album on, Puma and I raised our voices together, and this time he felt comfortable enough to really lay on the vocals, drawing out the howl and adding embellishments. It was a privilege to hear him. But I had forgotten that the windows were open.
Suddenly there was a knock at my door, and when I opened it I saw the concerned faces of three of my neighbors, who immediately wanted to know if I was okay. They told me that knowing how strong my bond is with Puma, and hearing him howling, they thought that something had happened to me! I was touched that my neighbors would run to my rescue, and hastened to reassure them. I invited them in to hear the concert up close and personal, but Puma was having none of it, apparently our concerts were only for the immediate pack.
And I realized that in considering the call I was hearing from the wolf at the Woodland Park Zoo, the question was not whether Puma was part wolf, but that ALL dogs are part wolf. In considering my relationship with wolves I realized that I also needed to consider our relationship with dogs, for they are the very direct descendants of the wolves.
To be continued...
The image that accompanies this article, The Wolf Within, is of Puma, and is available for purchase as greeting cards or note cards.
An early pioneer in the field of alternative healing for animals since 1996, Rose De Dan, Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing LLC, offers a unique perspective on animals and the natural world through her writing, art, sessions and classes. As an animal shaman, voice of the animals, and author of Tails of a Healer: Animals, Reiki and Shamanism, she views her role as a healer as one of building bridges between people and animals, and of empowering them to reconnect with Pachamama, Mother Earth.
In partnership with her animal companions she teaches Reiki and shamanic classes in Seattle, WA and offers private consultations for both humans and animals. For individual sessions and phone consultations reach her at (206) 933-7877 or send an email.
Join the National Outcry to Save Wolves and Their Pups
On May 4, the wolf's federal protection was be lifted, and government agents will be free to open fire in Idaho and Montana, and not even newborn wolf pups pups and their nursing mothers will be spared. After that, the states launch public hunts, targeting wolves.
This is the wrong time to remove federal protections from these struggling wolves. Over the past year the wolf population in Yellowstone National Park has declined by 27 percent,with more than 70 percent of wolf pups succumbing to disease.
Join "The Big Howl," and add your voice to the campaign to reverse the decision to kick wolves off the endangered species list.
New Interview with Rose De Dan
Purrs and Catcalls:
An Interview with Rose De Dan
for A Life on Fire
On June 3rd I was interviewed by the Sisters of Sizzle, Elise Kloter and Jill Pagano on A Life on Fire.
Elise and Jill's mission is to search out people who are living their passion and and get them to share it with others.
Their excitement is contagious, this was the most fun I have had so far doing an interview. You won't want to miss our purring contest, or our standup comedy routine on cat calling. And yes, we do cover serious issues such as my dream of bringing the benefits of energy healing and animal communication to zoo animals.
A Spirited Walk on the Wild Side: Fire Ceremony for the Animals
Join me, Rose De Dan, Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing for a shamanic Fire Ceremony for the animals.
The intention of the ceremony is one of creating healing and support for All Our Relations and assisting in positively shifting planetary awareness toward creating a world where we all live in harmony. I hope that you will be able to join us for this magical evening.
WRSH Answers the Call of the Wild
There are many worthy organizations out there in need of support, and it is difficult to choose amongst so many, so I had to boil it down to the essentials: if we do not reverse the global warming trend many species will die, possibly even our own. So WRSH is Answering the Call of the Wild by pledging to donate a percentage of ALL revenues to the planting of trees worldwide. So whether you schedule a Healing Session for yourself or your animal companion, sign-up for a Reiki or Shamanic Class or Ceremony, or purchase a Product or Gift, your purchase gains the additional benefit of restoring habitat for wildlife and reducing the effects of climate change.
With your help, this month WRSH donated enough to plant 110 Trees, bringing our total for trees planted so far to 349!
Our donation this month went to Trees for the Environment, this project plants to repair hurricane or flood damage - have cleaner air -- reclaim abandoned strip mines or farms - prevent erosion into salmon streams - fight back invasive species of trees - and make cooler, cleaner cities. Trees reduce greenhouse gases by absorbing carbon dioxide, save energy, help filter our water, and so much more!
And you can donate directly as well. A donation to American Forests is a great way to help the environment. Every dollar your give to a tree planting project plants one tree in the right place for the right reason. No matter where your tree is planted it benefits the planet as a whole.
Native American Prophecy “When the Earth is sick, the animals will begin to disappear, when that happens, The Warriors of the Rainbow will come to save them." —Chief Sealth (Seattle), Suquamish
WRSH is for the Birds! Follow us on Twitter.
Inspiring Videos About People and Animals
We've updated and moved our popular section, Inspirational People and Animal Videos. It has moved from the Resource Links section to the newly titled Books and Videos.
And we've recently added some more favorites. Our goal is to inspire and sometimes entertain; to find videos that offer a fresh perspective into the world of people or animals (and sometimes they are much closer than you might think, watch the video where two cats figure out how to use a treadmill).
Here's a brief list of some of our latest additions.
Jill Bolte Taylor's stroke of insight
Jill Bolte Taylor had a unique opportunity few brain scientists would wish for: She had a massive stroke, and watched as her brain functions -- motion, speech, self-awareness -- shut down one by one, and she shares how her awareness of the universal connections opened up at the same time. An inspiring story powerfully told.
Brian & Eileen's Wedding Music Video
Guaranteed to make you smile, the wedding party rocks out to Queen.
American Idol contestant Adam Lambert weaves beautiful spell
Inspiring to watch someone reach for their dream and succeed. Haunting vocals and a powerful stage presence combine to make this an incredibly beautiful performance of "Mad World" by American Idol contestant Adam Lambert.
Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent
"Never judge a book by its cover" is what everyone is saying about Susan Boyle, age 47, a recent contestant on Britain's Got Talent, who lives with her cat, Pebbles, in a small village in Scotland (and who says she has never been kissed). It has always been her dream to be a professional singer, and it was her mother, shortly before her death, who encouraged her to reach for her dream. Her performance brought tears to my eyes, and she became an instant star internationally.
Fox on Trampoline
All species share an enjoyment of play. This wild fox is having great fun on a trampoline in an urban garden in Kent, England.
Peace for Dogs PSA Powerful, non-violent Public Service Announcement video movingly tells the story of who really suffers in dog fighting, and asks an important question. The inspiration here is the story behind the making of the video. It only takes one person to create a difference.
And much more!
WRSH Going Techno! Now you can schedule a session online!
Well this ReikiShaman is turning into a techno-dweeb, and it's about time! Literally, mine and yours.
In an effort to better serve my clients and save my sanity, I am automating as many functions as I can in the back office,
and scheduling of sessions is one of them.
You will no longer have to wait days to find out my availability, or suffer through email ping-pong or phone tag trying to land a time slot. NOW you can schedule a session for yourself or your animal companion at any time of day or night.
Of course I will still be available by email and phone if needed.
CURRENT CLIENTS: please call if you have an emergency and there is nothing available, and I will do the very best I can to assist you.
Now, on to the setup of the new shopping cart system, and maybe then I can get some writing done!
Best wishes,
Rose De Dan
Rose De Dan Interview for The Dog Talk Show Available
I was interviewed on The Dog Talk Show Wednesday, April 22 at 2:00 p.m., by Julie Forbes, behavior and nutrition specialist.
Two lucky callers received an autographed copy of my book "Tails of a Healer: Animals, Reiki and Shamanism," Julie's 95 year-old Nana was on live for Happy Birthday wishes (and what a plug she gave Julie, grandmothers rock!), and Julie and I had a lively discussion regarding the history of wolves, man and dogs and how each species has influenced the other. We also chatted about the session Julie's 12 year-old dog, Chewy, had with me the day before and why energy work is good for aging pets.
The Dog Talk Show airs Wednesday afternoons from 2:00-3:00pm on Alternative Talk 1150 AM. You can also listen to live online streaming at www.1150kknw.com. When their website is fully up, shows will be archived, but for now they are only available live.
Sign Up For Our Newsletter!
If you sign up for our newsletter we promise to do our best to offer you articles and products that will enrich your life and the lives of your animal companions.
And if we do not live up to our promise, you have the right to unsubscribe at any time.
Shamanism, the world’s oldest form of healing, is founded on the belief that the universe is one in spirit — a universe in which animals, birds, stones, rivers, mountains are messengers and allies.
In this four-part class we will connect with forces of nature, deepening our relationship with the world around us. Our journey encompasses the shedding of our past and the healing of old wounds. Through ancient and powerful ceremonies and Rites of Passage you will build your own mesa (healing bundle), freeing yourself and creating alliances. This is the path of the shaman, learning to live in grace and with spirit.
"I became a Mesa carrier over six years ago. I find the teachings I learned from this tradition inform how I work and live on a daily basis. I was blessed to have wonderful people in my ayllu (community of fellow students of the tradition). Though we live in different places and I don't see many of them anymore, I still feel fully connected with them and with the ancestors who held these teachings in the past. It's a very rich tradition and I feel very fortunate to be a part of it.--P.K., Issaquah
We have a whole new group of dowsing pendulums created specifically for Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing.
PENDULUMS
Our new pendulums were energetically chosen specifically for Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing. Their creator, Suzanne Powell, is renowned for her "stone medicine." These pendulums are not only beautiful and fast readers, but offer healing for the person who chooses them as well. Each pendulum comes with a brochure of simple exercises to get you started.
Check out our beautiful dowsing pendulums, perhaps there is one "stone buddy" waiting for you!
If you are unsure as to which pendulum or necklace you should choose I would be happy to do an energetic read on which would be of most benefit, just send me an email with description, or call 206-933-7877.
Gifts with Spirit!
We've been busy shamanic elves, and have some wonderful gifts available for you or a loved one or friend.
Reiki Refreshment: Water, Coffee and Tea to go!
Brand NEW! SIGG 1 Liter Water Bottle or Ceramic Travel Mug. Add Reiki power and stir and you're ready to hit the road and let the world know what you do!
Spiritual Journals
These are great journals for sharing your thoughts and feelings about special journeys and events in your life, or paired with our Shamanic Calendar/Workbook so that you can record your transformative and healing experiences in greater detail.
The perfect journal for when you want to do some spiritual housecleaning, image is a deluxe smudge kit containing sage, juniper bundles, palo santo wood, abalone shell, and wild turkey feathers for ceremonial clearing work. See our NEW Grande Smudge Kit for another great gift idea.
Reiki Hats That Tell the World Who You Are!
Who's the boss? The energy! There is something really appealing about a trucker hat that lets everyone know you are a Reiki Woman! There's even one for Animal Reiki people complete with cat or dog pawprints! Hats are available in different colors/styles as well as with slogans "got reiki?," "Reiki Dude," and "Reiki Master."
Power Up Your Reiki Practice!
Your car, your t-shirt, hat, purse or shopping bag can all be vehicles to help drive your healing practice to success. Check out our Reiki wares: License Plate Frames, Mugs, Earth friendly canvas shopping bags, buttons, etc. Tell the world what you offer!
License plate frames are an excellent way to generate free advertising buzz. Available in several slogans: "got reiki," "reiki on!," "reiki practitioner," "reiki master," reiki for better living," "the reiki way...helps keep the doctor/vet away," "animal reiki practitioner," etc.
Jaguar Walk is now available in Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing's online store both as a poster print and as a greeting card.
Talking to Animals
"Lots of people talk to animals," said Pooh.
"Maybe, but..."
Not very many listen, though," he said.
"That's the problem," he added.
From The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
2009 Reiki Classes
Taking a class in Reiki may be the single best gift you can give yourself or your loved ones, whether they walk on two legs or four, swim or fly.
The ability to facilitate Reiki is the gift that keeps on giving, it is easy to learn, and offers a lifetime of benefits. Imagine being able to accelerate healing when sick, being able to relieve the pain of an injury, heal feelings of anger, fear, grief, or decrease discomfort after surgery! All of this is possible with Reiki. See Reiki classes for more classes and details.
If you are interested in a Reiki class be sure to sign up in a timely fashion as class space is limited to 8 people. See Frequently Asked Questions for information on how to register.
2009 REIKI LEVEL I CLASSES
January: Friday, January 9, 7-9pm & Saturday, Jan. 10, 9-5pm March: Friday, Mar. 13, 7-9pm & Saturday, Mar. 14, 9-5pm May: Friday, May 8, 7-9pm & Saturday, May 9, 9-5pm July: Friday, July 10, 7-9pm & Saturday, July 11, 9-5pm September: Friday, Sept. 11, 7-9pm & Saturday, Sept. 12, 9-5pm November: Friday, Nov. 13, 7-9pm & Saturday, Nov. 14, 9-5pm
2009 REIKI LEVEL II CLASSES
April: Friday, April 10, 7-9pm & Saturday, April 11, 9-5pm June: Friday, June 12, 7-9pm & Saturday, June 13, 9-5pm December: Friday, December 11, 7-9pm & Saturday, December 12, 9-5pm
Inca Initiation: Advanced Shamanic Training An in-depth exploration of the Inca Medicine Ways
Shamans in the Andes undergo a series of rites of passage as they develop their medicine body. Each level of the Andean Medicine Person holds a body of knowledge or set of skills which are the cornerstones for mastering reality and the dream body. This will be a three-session training, with optional fourth, to explore in-depth the myths, practices, and tools of the Medicine People.
Advanced Inca Medicine program participants must have completed the introductory training (with any teacher) and be full mesa carriers. You must also be willing to make a commitment to all three meetings in sequence: September 25-27, 2009; April 9-11, 2010; September 24-26, 2010.
Do you love animals or have an animal companion that shares your life? Ever wondered what it is like to experience the world through their eyes, what is it like to be an animal healer? Rose De Dan, Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing, energy worker and animal communicator and author of “Tails of a Healer: Animals, Reiki and Shamanism” has been a voice for the animals since 1996. Our technology has set in motion rapid change worldwide, and the animals those changes affect want to be heard. Join Dr. Liana Carbon as she interviews Rose on what it means to be an animal shaman for domestic and wild animals and what messages they have for us. To listen to this archive, click here.
Have you wondered how the animals are being affected by global warming and what their perspective is? The animals are reaching out to us to help restore balance, are we ready to answer the call and help save them from species extinction? In this show Rose De Dan, Wild Reiki and Shamanic Healing, and author of “Tails of a Healer: Animals, Reiki and Shamanism,” shares her shamanic vision from the animals of how to change the trajectory of global warming through the use of ceremony, energy work, and practical changes in our daily lives. Rose has been a voice for the animals since 1996, helping reconnect people, animals, and the natural world. Join Dr. Liana Carbon as she interviews Rose on how the ancient technologies of shamanism can be used alongside modern science to bridge the gap we have created and restore balance. To listen to this archive, click here.