Luke’s Lengthy Journey Towards Normality
Editor’s Note: Animal abuse is a growing problem in Colorado and Teller County, despite our reputation as a pet-friendly area. The following is a column from an animal communicator, based in Woodland Park. If you have similar stories, feel free to share these experiences with the column author. Also, remember there are available resources for unwanted pets, or for those who can’t take care of their special canine or feline, such as the Teller County Regional Animal Shelter in Divide. TMJ News strongly supports efforts to enhance better animal welfare in our region.
Barbara G. Royal, Animal Communicator
Have you rescued a “fearful” pet and worried about their life, asking – “Will they ever be happy –– how can I help them?”
Meet Luke, a handsome Greyhound/Australian Shepherd mix with a heart for peace but a history clouded by fear.
His pet mom has a business boarding dogs. She adopted him, knowing the entire litter had anxieties of different levels. With her experience she hoped to help him overcome his fears and eventually find him a happy forever home.
But like many canines with this type of trauma, his fears were deeply buried.
Realizing his behaviors weren’t breed specific or a personality trait, she contacted me for help through Animal Trauma Healing.
The process calls for intent, spiritual listening to a pet as they unfold their story.
The Power of Animal Trauma Healing
Luke revealed he has been carrying the weight of early trauma— memories of small, inescapable spaces and a “big human” who used force and whipping hands instead of kindness. For Luke, a small room isn’t just a room; it’s a trigger for insecurity and fear.
And he also shared a specific plea for how his caretaker can help him feel safe. The main messages Luke conveyed to me were:
“Go slowly with me.”
“Watch your hands, they scare me.”
“Talk softly and tell me how good I am.”
Finding A Path to Balance
Luke’s caretaker/and pet owner is now supporting the trauma healing process by rewriting a narrative of fear into one of belonging. She is reminding him every day “You are a good dog,” “You belong” and “You are wanted.”
She is affirming the message: “Luke, You are Bringing Your Life Into Balance.”
With this foundation, this person believes Luke will be ready for his “forever home” after his adjustment period.
A Gradual Process
Luke’s caretaker is feeling good about the changes she is noticing. It is a work in progress —
In the past, the sight of her children playing would have sent him into a frantic, hiding panic.
This time was different. While he wasn’t yet “comfortable,” he didn’t run. He stood his ground and watched them. He is choosing observation over flight, a massive win for a dog with his traumatic history.
This is an important step.
Sometimes it takes a team to bridge the gap, soul to soul – a loving pet parent and a caring professional. When we understand the “why” behind the fear, we can provide the “how” for the healing.
Have you ever rescued a dog with a “mysterious history”? Share your story with Barbara or with other Mountain Jackpot readers — let’s recognize how we help animals in need.
*Barbara G. Royal is a 45-year resident of Teller County. Her journey to Animal Communication is founded on certain mystical and spiritual studies. Barbara has achieved three certifications since she began translating messages of animals nine years ago. Her passion is to let people know of the blessings our pets have for us when we realize their perspective about behavior and life situations.
In addition to writing short stories about animal communication, Royal has self-published, In the Garden, Messages from Heaven for Life on Earth, 2021. She is also a collaborative writer of 20 Shades of Grief, 2026. Both are available through Amazon and other book sellers. Barbara can be reached at https://www.barbaragroyal.com/
