How many animals are fearful of certain objects or situations? A young man told me that his pup, when inside a vehicle with the window wipers going, is scared and tries to hide or leans in hard against the man.
It made me think of how to best help the little dog overcome his fear and how I feel when I am under pressure and cannot get away to a safe place or when people are wanting me to behave in a way that is uncomfortable for me. The pressure itself becomes something to resist, taking away the freedom to investigate on my own terms.
Most animals I have observed, like to take their time approaching something they are fearful of, especially if they are unable to leave the area. They need space, little or no pressure, to gain enough confidence or curiosity to check something out.
Applying pressure in its many forms, forcing them up to an object or to perform in some way, can result in them resisting and becoming more panicked and worried. Animals are survival orientated – people less so, or at least we often have so many messages in our heads, that we ignore many instinctive survival messages. We find ways to over-ride them, especially if we know logically “there is nothing to fear here”. Alternatively, we may feel very anxious and unsure why.
But for an animal, giving physical space and time, maybe some encouragement and even a considered plan of action to become comfortable and at ease with the feared “thing”, will go a long way to alleviating fear and developing confidence.
When pressure is inescapable and timing is of the essence, we may force an issue and deal with repercussions later. Each situation must be evaluated for safety obviously or necessity. For most scenarios taking our time will be the best thing to do, as this way a more long-term and satisfactory outcome is likely.
Observing something from a safe distance for a period of time, until it becomes normal may be called for, for both animals and people. Without pressure, we get to feel more at ease and less threatened. Some encouragements such as food (for animals) or praise can be helpful, or just having time to realise something is actually okay may be enough. Becoming “used to something” over time, without actually being endangered, will be helpful for many domesticated animals.
As well as using a practical approach, a blend of First Light Flower Essences of New Zealand® that includes no.4 Marlborough Rock Daisy in it, for fear of known things, would assist in overcoming some fears. Other essences may be added to the blend, essences that are specific to the animal and situation.