As we approach Halloween I thought I might share a little of what I’ve learned about animal spirits and tell an abbreviate version of a famous animal ghost story. As you may know, I’m the author of Ghost Cats: Human Encounters with Feline Spirits and the host of Paranormal Pets on PetLifeRadio.com, so people like to share their experiences with me.
Throughout recorded history people have reported the presence of animal ghosts. While most say the encounters have been friendly and comforting, there is a famous entity with an ominous reputation. Reports of a frightening feline spectre come from the very top, or at least rather from security at the very top. The most feared of America’s feline spirits stalks the basement of the nation’s capitol in Washington, D.C. He’s known as the Demon Cat of the Capitol, D.C. for short.
On several occasions guards have reported being attacked by a black cat prowling the shadows of the basement. According to newspaper reports, in 1862 and 1898, guards shot at a black cat that grew to the size of a tiger.
One story said the legend was so popular that inspired a tiny black cat depicted the back of the old-style (1970’s to 1996) twenty-dollar bill. If you use a loop (and can find one of these old bills) you can see a cat walking across the roof of the White House. I’ve seen the image, but haven’t been able to confirm the origin.
Unlike the frightening D.C., people usually report feeling comforted by a visit from their departed pet. The most common animal hauntings involve dogs, cats, and horses because of their close association with people.
Is one of your past pets popping in for an occasional visit? The three most common signs of animal ghosts are reported to be:
Feeling the presence of the animal- Some people report the feeling the dog or cat animal jump into their bed and lay down in their customary spot. Others have the feeling that the pet is touching their skin. Horse owners have reported unmistakable sensation warm horse breath blowing across their necks and shoulders.
Seeing the animal: Often individuals glimpse their pets briefly out of the corner of their eye. Occasionally they see the pet straight on. Experts suggest these images are more likely to be seen peripherally because the peripheral vision is more sensitive and the outer retina contains more rod cells.
Hearing the animal: Some people report hearing meowing, purring, barking, or the clicking of toenails on the floor or the jangling of tack.
Often animal hauntings are a one-time or short-term occurrence. Occasionally people experience prolonged haunting. Many cultures, including Native Americans, believe that animal spirits are protectors or guides.
Why do they come back? Why do human ghosts return? No one can say with complete certainty, however many people who have experienced theses situations believe that they are for the owner's closure and resolution. These visits often allow a grieving owner to get on with their life. Many feel that the pet has given them permission to love again.
If you’re interested, I can go into more on D.C. When I have more time. Until then, don’t forget to enter Dusty Rainbolt's Ghoulish Pet Photo Contest at www.zootoo.com.
Dusty Rainbolt
Member of Cat Writers' Association & International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
Host of Paranormal Pets at PetLifeRadio.com
Author of Cat Wrangling Made Easy: Maintaining Peace & Sanity in Your Multicat Home, Ghost Cats: Human Encounters with Feline Spirits, Kittens for Dummies, All the Marbles
www.dustyrainbolt.com
