Mercury retrograde, astrology’s scariest transit, can hinder communication, eviscerate relationships, and compromise travel—and it can be hell for pets, too.
Named for the god of messages, Mercury is our planet of communication and mental processing, mind and mouth. Three to four times each year, the planet seems to travel backwards across the sky, bringing with it minor disasters, relationship quagmires and random chaos.
When does Mercury retrograde begin?
This month, Mercury retrograde begins on Monday, August 5th and keeps the hijinx coming until August 28th.
Mercury is the fastest moving body in our sky. Known as a personal planet, it affects us intimately, meaningfully, and daily.
Research from Everypaw Pet Insurance reveals that searches for “Does Mercury Retrograde Affect Cats” have increased 100% over the past three months, while searches for “Mercury Retrograde Dogs” have increased 33% over the past year.
How does Mercury retrograde affect us?
A separate study found that one in three pet owners believe that Mercury retrograde affects the way their pets behave.
Indicators that your pet is suffering include resistance to commands, sleeping in different places and accidents in the house.
The first half of this Mercury retrograde will especially affect the four-legged among us, as the planet is retrograde in Virgo, a sign associated with daily rituals and pets.
Manuela Brumm, a certified dog trainer at Woofz, a dog and dog training app, claims that animals, especially dogs, are more sensitive than humans.
Sensitive and sensitive to scent, so to speak.
Recent research suggests that dogs can smell our stress and change their behavior in response. Our canine companions experience “emotional upheaval” from the whiff of human stress, causing them to make more “pessimistic” choices.
And when Mercury in retrograde pulls its usual bulls, these effects are amplified.
“During this time, dogs’ normal communication can be disrupted, making it harder for them to follow commands or express their needs,” Brumm tells The Post. “For example, a dog may get confused and miss a call that they would normally answer. This period can make pets more anxious and restless, so maintaining a calm and stable environment in the home can really help.”
Brumm is ready to help owners navigate this transportation.
1. Engage in mentally stimulating activities
Brumm explains that during this retrograde cycle, pets, like humans, feel more anxious,
“It makes sense to buy some puzzle toys, interactive feeders or sniff games to keep their attention. Mental stimulation can help them focus their attention away from external distractions and reduce stress levels. It can also boost their confidence and give them a sense of achievement.”
2. Include sound and aromatherapy
Brumm shows that people can support themselves and their pets by creating an environment that promotes peace.
“Diffusing essential oils like lavender or chamomile. Combine this with soothing music or nature sounds developed exclusively for pets. These sensory experiences can calm your pet and create a peaceful environment, countering the chaotic energy of Mercury retrograde.”
Make it beautiful – keep it cool.
3. Practice grounding exercises together
Mercury retrograde can be a destabilizing time, and Brumm recommends reconnecting with the outdoors with bare feet and your pet in tow.
“Slow, focused walks in nature can help ground your pet. Let your dog explore and sniff around, as this can be beneficial for them,” Brumm suggested to The Post. “Walking barefoot in the grass with your dog can also help you feel more grounded and connected to the earth, reducing anxiety and stress.
Known as “grounding” or “earthing,” digging 10 toes deep into the dirt is known to calm the mind and body. Practitioners believe that you can rejuvenate yourself by connecting it to the negative electrical charge flowing through the earth.
4. Energy healing and massage
All living things can benefit from a little TLC during Mercury’s rotation. When vibrations are junk, touch therapy can bring us back into balance.
As Brumm explains, “If you want to balance your dog’s energy, use energy healing treatments like Reiki or acupressure. These approaches can help with relaxation and general well-being. Giving your dog a light massage can improve circulation, ease muscle tension and build your bond, providing physical and emotional comfort.”
5. Monitor and regulate your energy
Although it can be difficult, experts urge pet owners to make a concerted effort to stay calm, cool and focused during Mercury retrograde.
“Many dogs are used for emotional support, but it’s worth remembering that these are not stuffed animals,” Dr. Andrea Y. Tu, medical director at Behavior Vets of New York, previously told The Post. “Dogs feed on the energy we emit.â€
Brumm echoes those sentiments, urging owners to practice self-care during this transit to ease the high-octane stress they can transfer to their pets.
“Manage your anxiety by practicing mindfulness and stress relief methods,” says Brumm. “By maintaining a steady, positive energy, you can create a calming presence for your pets and make them feel more secure.”
Astrology 101: Your Guide to the Star
Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and reports irreverently on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture and personal experience.
#Mercury #retrograde #hell #pets #tips
Image Source : nypost.com