Animal Communication
Reiki
Payments and Policies
Don't see your question answered below? Just send an e-mail to jill (at) jillofark (dot) com.
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| photo by Wendy Colucci: www.clickshootingstars.com |
DOG TRAINING
What is positive-reinforcement training?
Positive-reinforcement training is a humane method for teaching a dog what behaviors are desirable (and which behaviors are unacceptable) by rewarding good behaviors and ignoring or minimizing attention given to bad behaviors. Jill has seen countless dogs respond to this type of training without the need for compulsion training methods (such as choke collars or harsh physical corrections) which seek to teach the dog by making him avoid punishment.
I'm not into all this spiritual and holistic stuff. Can I still benefit from your training methods?
Absolutely! Jill has experience training through conventional positive-reinforcement methods as well as through her unique integrative practices. In her traditional group classes, she focuses primarily on the former and will offer only as supplemental material some visualization techniques and/or holistic remedies for clients who are open to them. (Clients who are eager to incorporate these practices should consider taking part in one of Jill's upcoming Spiritual Dog Training Workshops at Beyond Natural Health Center or working with for a few sessions Jill one-on-one.)
Should both "parents" be present at training classes and/or sessions?
Jill believes that the most important thing is that all members of a dog's household be committed to the training process rather than the classes themselves. While it would be beneficial for all adults and older children to attend training classes (to see procedures firsthand), Jill understands that this may not always be possible and will provide you with resources to help extend class experiences to those who cannot be present. For long-term training success, lessons from classes should be shared with all who interact regularly with your dog so that consistent leadership is provided.
My dog is strong and spirited. Why shouldn't I use a choke or pronged collar to give myself better control?
Besides being painful to the dog and potentially dangerous if used incorrectly, a strong physical correction from these types of collars can lead to unpredictable aggression. Through a commitment to positive training, most dogs can be taught to walk on a leash with a regular flat-buckle collar. For those who need a little extra help, Jill recommends head collars and/or walking harnesses (which enhance leash control and minimize pulling) until the dog masters loose-leash walking. Jill resorts to choke and/or pronged collars as a temporary measure only if all other methods have failed and the dog is in danger of being rehomed if the problem cannot be resolved.
While it is ultimately the person's decision which type of collar to use on the dog, Jill does not permit the use of choke or pronged collars in her training classes for safety and ethical reasons. If your dog cannot be taught to walk without one in a group setting, you will be referred to individualized training.
ANIMAL COMMUNICATION
So my animals really talk, huh? Why can't I hear them?
Animals do not speak words aloud like humans do, but they most definitely express thoughts and feelings that humans can telepathically pick up on and learn to understand. Communication between animals and humans occurs on a higher level; in essence, our higher selves request a direct connection with the animal's higher selves.
But you probably have "heard" your animal without realizing it! How do you know when it's time to let your dog outside, when your cat is hungry, or when your hamster wants a new log to chew on? The problem for most of us is that our heads get in the way. We assume we know these things because we've trained our animals to follow a routine that we can recognize, not because the animals have actually sent us these messages.
What do you "hear" when you talk to an animal?
What Jill receives from an animal depends entirely on the animal--but it's usually one (or some combination of the following): an image or moving picture, words in a distinct voice or as silent thoughts, or feelings/sensations in the body. Jill has learned to trust that the animals' guides and her guides will work together to help her understand the message the way she's supposed to--however she receives it.
How can you communicate with an animal through a photograph?
Because the communication is occurring on a higher level (between Jill's higher self and the animal's higher self), it is not necessary for Jill to be in the same physical location as the animal. A photo serves only to help her focus in clearly on the animal with whom she's trying to communicate.
Can my animal understand me even if I don't know how to understand them?
Of course! Animals understand a lot of what you tell them. It helps if you picture in your mind what it is you're trying to explain to them as you speak the words aloud. Sometimes, animals do the exact opposite of what you want because the image in your mind reflects your worries instead of desires. If you're afraid that your cat will use your new sofa as her personal scratching post, your cat will see your picture of her digging her claws into the upholstery and think you want her to do that. Try focusing on a positive behavior instead--think of her scratching only her designated scratching post.
But remember that animals, just like humans, have free will. If your animal isn't responding in the manner you desire, it doesn't mean that your communication effort was unsuccessful. Your animal may be deciding not to listen!
REIKI
Check back soon.
PAYMENTS AND POLICIES
What methods of payment do you accept?
Cash, check, and Paypal are acceptable forms of payment. There is a $25 fee on returned checks.
Will you work on trade?
Jill is willing to consider trading services in lieu of standard payments.
When is payment due?
Payment is due in full at or before the time of your class or appointment. For long-distance communication sessions, payment must be received before services can be provided.
