The Empowered Companion Blog

Empowering all animals - two legged, four legged, clawed, finned, and furred - with collaborative resources and informed blog posts

Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

12 Must-Read Books About Animals: Inspiring Stories and Lessons of Deep Connection

At The Empowered Companion, we believe in the profound connection between all living beings. Whether through a shared glance with a beloved pet or the quiet awe of watching wildlife, these moments remind us that we’re part of a greater tapestry. Books have the power to deepen this understanding, offering insights, inspiration, and education.

We’ve compiled a list of captivating reads that blend rich narratives with enlightening content, perfect for fostering appreciation and compassion for animals and the world we share.

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Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

20 Inspiring Books to Deepen Your Connection with Nature

Embrace the wisdom and beauty of the natural world! For those yearning to deepen their connection with animals, plants, minerals, the earth, and ancestral teachings, we’ve curated a list of 20 powerful books that explore gratitude, mindfulness, and our sacred ties to nature. Whether you’re seeking practical guidance, spiritual insights, or poetic inspiration, these selections offer something for everyone.

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Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

10 Books for Kids to Explore the Bond Between Animals, Nature, and Humans

Stories have a unique way of shaping how we see the world. For children, the books they read can ignite curiosity, foster empathy, and plant seeds of compassion that bloom throughout their lives. At The Empowered Companion, we believe in nurturing a deep connection between all living beings and recognizing the lessons that animals and nature can teach us.

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Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

10 Inspirational Books to Read Aloud with Animals

We believe in the transformative power of presence, mindfulness, and connection—not just between humans but across all living beings. Reading aloud to animals is a beautiful practice that benefits not only our companions but also ourselves. In these moments, we find stillness, mindfulness, and connection, creating a ripple of healing energy that can transform our homes, rescue facilities, and our relationships with animals.

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Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Books, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

8 Books for Compassionate Animal Lovers to Unlock the Secrets of Their Behavior

Understanding the intricate dynamics of animal behavior deepens the bond between humans and their companion animals. Whether you're a cat enthusiast, a dog devotee, or simply captivated by the wonder of all living beings, delving into the world of animal behavior can inspire empathy, improve care, and strengthen relationships.

These selections emphasize mindfulness, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all living things.

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Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Kelsey Bailey, RVT Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Kelsey Bailey, RVT

Fostering Hope: Creating Brighter Futures for Shelter Animals

Imagine the power of small acts of kindness and how they can transform the lives of animals in need. Foster care offers a safe, nurturing environment for shelter pets, allowing them to heal, grow, and reveal their true personalities, all while preparing for their forever homes. In this heartwarming blog, we explore the profound impact of fostering, share personal insights from working in animal rescue, and debunk the myths surrounding who can foster. Whether you're new to fostering or simply curious, discover how you can become a hero for animals in need.

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Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals The Empowered Companion Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals The Empowered Companion

How Adopting Simba Changed Our Lives: A Journey of Love, Healing, and Second Chances

At The Empowered Companion, we believe in the power of connection between all beings, and nothing exemplifies this more than Ella’s adoption story. As one of our cherished team members, Ella welcomed Simba, a 6-year-old Pitbull, into her home in May of 2024—and from that day on, both of their lives changed for the better.

Ella had been searching for a companion to share her days with, someone to encourage her to get outside and embrace adventure. Enter Simba, a sweet dog who had endured challenges at the shelter but never lost his spirit. From the moment they met at the Denver Dumb Friends League, Ella and Simba knew they were meant to be together. His wagging tail and big smile said it all!

This journey has been one of healing, love, and second chances. Simba quickly transformed from a timid, anxious dog to a confident, loving friend, showing us all the undeniable impact of adoption. Read on to hear how this adoption changed not only Simba’s life, but Ella’s as well—reminding us how powerful it can be to open our hearts and homes to animals in need.

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Jaime's Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Jaime's Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

Charlie’s Journey (3): An Unexpected Diagnosis

Charlie's terminal illness serves as a poignant reminder to treasure every moment. From routine vet visits to heart-wrenching diagnoses, our bond deepens. As we navigate his final chapter, gratitude fills our hearts. Each purr, each gentle nudge, a cherished memory. Through it all, we're reminded that love transcends illness, and every moment with Charlie is a gift to be savored - beauty is found in life's simplest moments.

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Jaime's Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Jaime's Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

Charlie’s Journey (2): Lessons in Wisdom and Presence

I take a moment to explore the profound impact of Charlie, a source of wisdom amid terminal illness. Charlie helps me make room to reflect on the value of presence, love, and impermanence through heartfelt anecdotes, reminding us to cherish life's quiet moments. Charlie's legacy teaches invaluable lessons in gratitude and connection.

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Jaime's Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner Jaime's Personal Reflections, Lessons from the Animals Jaime Kuhn, Founder and Owner

Charlie’s Journey (1): Finding Balance Amongst Chaos

Balancing business aspirations with cherished moments with companion animals, particularly my terminally ill cat, Charlie. Discover the profound lessons learned through prioritizing time with a beloved companion while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Experience the transformative power of harmony amidst life's complexities, guided by gratitude and vulnerability.

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Our Animal (and Business) Code of Ethics

Kathleen Prasad created the Let Animals Lead® method of Animal Reiki and co-founded the Shelter Animal Reiki Association (SARA). She created the Animal Reiki Practitioner Code of Ethics as a guidepost for all Animal Reiki practitioners., regardless of lineage. Additionally, her book, Healing Virtues, provides an in depth explanation and examination of these core principles. The Empowered Companion has adapted the Animal Reiki Practitioner Code of Ethics to all of the work we do with animals and humans, including: Reiki, Pet Sitting and Cat Training.

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Tom Tom’s Story, part 1

My journey to working full-time with animals and recognizing my desire to exist with mutual respect and compassion with all animals began in 2019 with a foster cat named Tom - TomTom for long. I can look back at my life and the animals I worked and lived with, and how they touched me, but Tom leaned into my heart and lit the fire of passion for this work.

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