Animals Perception of Suffering and Illness

As humans, we often assume that animals experience suffering the way we do. When we see them unwell, struggling to move, or losing their appetite, it’s natural for us to feel sadness and helplessness. We want to do everything we can to ease their discomfort. But the way animals perceive their own suffering, illness, and even mortality is very different from ours.

Of course, medical treatment is necessary, but understanding their perspective helps us support them better—not just physically, but emotionally and energetically too. Recently, I communicated with an elderly dog who has cancer. For anonymity, I’m changing his name to Ned. His perspective on his illness gave his family a lot of clarity, and I hope sharing it helps others too.

Ned’s Understanding of His Illness

Ned has always been a strong-willed and perceptive soul. Despite his small physical frame, he carries himself like a leader—watchful, observant, always wanting to stay in control of his surroundings. His humans had a lot of concerns about his health. They wondered if he was in pain, if he was suffering, and if he was preparing to leave them. But when I connected with him, his response was very different from what they expected.

He acknowledged that his body was weak. There was discomfort, but it wasn’t sharp pain—it felt more like a persistent tingling, like pins and needles, which made him restless at times. He knew his condition was irreversible and that his body was slowing down, but he didn’t see it as something unfair or tragic. He wasn’t fearful or resisting what was happening. Instead, he saw it as a natural part of his journey, something he needed to experience.

What stood out the most was his determination. He wasn’t ready to leave just yet. Despite the cancer, the weakness, and the physical struggles, his spirit remained strong. He wanted to stay with his family for as long as possible. However, he also knew that when his body truly reached its limit, he would accept that too. There was no fear—just an understanding of what was to come.

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Animals and Their Sense of Purpose

Many animals, especially older ones, have a strong sense of purpose. Ned was clear that everything happening to him was part of a larger process. He didn’t see his illness as pointless suffering but as something that had meaning in his journey.

Unlike humans, animals don’t dwell on “Why me?” or “How long do I have left?” They don’t carry guilt or resentment over their condition. They simply focus on the present moment—what they can do right now to feel comfortable, to rest, to eat, or to spend time with those they love.

Ned also made it very clear that he wasn’t carrying his family’s energy. Sometimes, people worry that their animals absorb their stress or illnesses, but Ned wanted his humans to know that his condition was his own. He didn’t want them to feel guilty or responsible in any way. He knew they had done everything they could for him, and he wanted them to let go of any regret.

The Importance of Medical Treatment

Even though animals have a spiritual perspective on their health, it doesn’t mean they don’t need medical care. Ned understood that the medications, vet visits, and treatments were meant to help him, even if they were exhausting at times. He sometimes resisted them because they drained his energy, but he never doubted his humans’ intentions.

At the same time, he was open to holistic healing. He believed that alongside medical care, energy work could bring him comfort. His human, who practices Energy Healing, resonated deeply with this, and they decided to send him healing energy regularly.

One of the most moving moments was after our session, when Ned suddenly found the strength to move again. His family had thought he was too weak, but he managed to get up, even if briefly. This small shift gave them reassurance—he was still here, and he was still trying.

How to Support an Animal Through Illness

Understanding how animals perceive their health challenges helps us support them better. Here are some things we can do to make their journey easier:

1. Respect Their Autonomy

Many animals, especially those who have always been independent, don’t like being fussed over. Let them take the lead. If they want space, give it. If they seek comfort, be there.

2. Provide Mental Stimulation

Even if they can’t move around much, keeping their mind engaged helps. Talking to them, playing calming music, or letting them experience different scents can make them feel more connected and less restless.

3. Prioritize Medical Care Without Overwhelming Them

While medical treatment is necessary, it’s important to find a balance. If they resist certain treatments, find ways to make them feel safe and comfortable. Let them know they have a say in their own care.

4. Release Any Guilt

It’s easy to feel guilty when an animal falls ill. We start wondering if we could have done more, noticed symptoms earlier, or made different choices. But animals like Ned don’t hold onto these thoughts. They want us to focus on the love and care we continue to give them, rather than regretting the past.

5. Offer Energy Support

Alongside medical treatment, holistic healing methods like Reiki, energy healing, or even just sending them loving thoughts can bring them comfort. Many animals are highly receptive to these forms of support.

A Final Message from Ned

Ned’s journey is a reminder that animals don’t see illness the way we do. They don’t fear it, they don’t dwell on it, and they don’t feel burdened by it. They simply live through it.

His message to his family was simple: “I am still here, and I am still fighting.” He wanted them to know that he was grateful for everything they had done for him. He trusted them completely to make the right decisions. Whether he continued to fight or eventually chose to transition, he knew he was loved and supported.

Animals teach us so much about resilience, acceptance, and the power of the present moment. Watching them age or become unwell is never easy, but when we understand their perspective, it changes everything. They don’t want us to hold onto fear or sadness. They want us to focus on the love, the connection, and the time we still have together.

And in the end, that’s what truly matters.