Denise Dunlavy, Animal Communicator & Intuitive discusses her inspiring work as an animal communicator. She is dedicated to helping people deepen their connection and understanding of their animal companions.
Please tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to continue this path professionally?
The programming that I had from early childhood is that you are supposed to get a good job, get married, have kids and then climb the ladder. That was how I thought life was supposed to be so I tried and succeeded at most of those things and then realized that they didn’t make me happy. I was constantly thinking that when I reached the next goal, I would finally be at peace but it wasn’t happening. I attributed a lot of this to my corporate career and I had a dream of having my own business for many years but no idea what that business would be.
Then I met someone who told me I was psychic and it changed everything. I started taking clairvoyant classes and eventually I was giving aura clearings and energy healings as a student. Shortly after, I was called to move to a new city and started looking for a similar community. The first person I met was an animal communication teacher so I took her course. It took a few years but she encouraged me to do animal communication professionally. Her support gave me the courage to get started. Now I know that this is truly my calling. Animals have always had special meaning to me but now I have an even better connection with them.
What are the main services that you offer?
Animal Communication is my most popular service. I connect to pets energetically and interpret messages from them. The pets can be living or in spirit and they do not need to be present. I look at a picture to connect to their energy. The sessions can cover various topics as well as talking TO animals so they can feel prepared for life changes. I am primarily an interpreter but I like to provide clients with tangible steps for how to move forward after a session to incorporate what came through.
I also offer readings and energy healings for people. This can take different forms depending on what the client needs. My sessions are interactive because I get intuitive information when a person is sharing with me. However, sometimes quiet healing is needed and then I will guide them through a meditation and get messages by looking at their chakras.
I am also teaching animal communication workshops and courses. Everyone can talk to animals, you just have to learn to focus your attention and practice, practice, practice!
For anyone who has had a close relationship with an animal it would be clear that animals have recognition, memory, decision-making abilities, intelligence, and a wide range of emotions. Could you tell us a bit about your own experience of this and how you connect with animals?
Above all else, animals represent unconditional love. That is even more evident since I have been communicating with animals. This comes through in sessions because often pet parents feel guilty, worry that they aren’t doing enough or have trouble making decisions because they are afraid of doing something wrong while pets focus on positive experiences. They are grateful, forgiving and want to bring comfort to their people. Pets have memories, emotions and opinions about many things and that includes their people. Often a pet will tell me their person is sad or stressed out so they are bringing up issues that can be healed. My intention is that through this work, people will develop better relationships with their pets and peace with those that have passed.
What are the more popular aspects that your clients seek guidance on?
A frequently discussed subject revolves around inquiries about the end of life. This period can evoke intense emotions, particularly when individuals are faced with the difficult task of aiding their beloved pets in their passing. In such situations, I engage in a heartfelt conversation with the pet, inquiring about their readiness and any measures that would enhance their comfort. Although these discussions can be heartbreaking, my utmost priority is to offer solace and tranquility throughout the process. Interestingly, animals often reminisce about joyful moments, maintaining a positive outlook.
I also get a lot of questions about behavioral issues. I always start by asking an animal why they are doing a certain thing. Sometimes it is an emotional reaction, sometimes they are having anxiety or sometimes they just need training. In the case they need training I will ask them what type of training they would be open to.
When pets dies, many people often seek reassurance about their pet’s well-being, inquire about their feelings towards them, or wonder if there’s a possibility of their pet returning. Additionally, common topics of interest revolve around uncovering the history of rescue animals, reasons behind any conflicts with family members, health-related concerns, and the pets being reincarnated in the spiritual.
In your experience in working with people, what would you say is the number one thing that holds most people back from living the fulfilling life they would like to live?
It’s essential to recognize the incredible potential of our minds. By embracing faith, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. Often, we discourage ourselves out of our dreams. Instead, let’s envision those individuals who are living their dreams, and rather than thinking, “I could never do that,” let’s explore the endless possibilities that await us.
Next time, say “I can do that too even if I don’t know how to get there yet.”
What advice would you give someone trying to develop a richer connection with themselves and in overcoming obstacles in their lives?
My suggestion for connecting with oneself and overcoming challenges involves cultivating a spiritual routine and set intentions. Try various things until you discover what works for you. This can be strolling amidst nature, meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, journaling or exploring other avenues. A consistent routine lays the groundwork for staying present and detaching from external pressures, even if only for a brief duration each day. And, don’t overlook the idea of bringing a pet into your life! Animals serve as remarkable instructors and illustrations, gently nudging us to embrace the present instant.