Whether we call them Familiars, Totems or Spirit Guides, animals play a large and important role in the Witch’s life.  Most of us live with animals — cat, dog, ferret, fish, parrot… you name it, we live with it.  Please note that I don’t say ‘own,’ witches tend to see our selves as living with the world and its creatures rather than dominating them. This comes from our philosophy, but also from our roots as the shaman, the spiritual leader of the tribe in pre-historical days. Then, to understand the animals who were so vital for our continued existence, the shaman would study the ways of various animals, live as like to them as possible, dreamwalk with them, and even spend time conversing with them in their own language. Our animal allies provide a glimpse into one of the places where the Witch as Shaman connection can be seen.

FINDING YOUR TOTEM ANIMALS
Some people say that each of us is born with nine animal totems, which bring teachings and messages for greater understanding and insights for our benefit throughout our lifetime. Two of those animals are permanent and never leave us. They are our primary totems and sometimes called Power Animals. They are not necessarily exotic animals and we usually know them by instinct because we are especially attracted to them throughout our lives - sometimes even dreaming about them.

One walks on the left to guard and guide the feminine side of our energies while the other walks on our right to guard and guide the masculine characteristics. Those with a female totem on the right and a male totem on the left are born with a special kind of energy balance and usually have very important Spirit work to do in their lifetime.

To discover the remaining seven totems, we would read and learn as much about animals and their physical characteristics as we can. One excellent book for this is Animal-Speak by Ted Andrews. Psychics, people who do healing and special work with animals, and others who have a good understanding of animal energies, should also be able to help. Those who meditate can ask for the animals to show themselves during meditations and identify themselves as totems.

I’ve started you off with an introductory article about the differences between, and how to recognize your Familiar, Totem and Spirit Guides.  The poem, "Power Animals" will help you see the dance. Anne Niven’s article “Power From The Earth” is a glorious description of one witch’s experience.   Finally, I have posted a very practical article by Larry Cornett discussing Nature Spirit Magic which, although not directly related to animals, gives excellent techniques for finding and working with our animal allies.
Finally, for those of us who have lost a beloved pet, here is a Requiem Ritual for Pets.