Remember, we are more than one archetype. If you haven’t read my information about archetypes, please read this first.
Caregiver/helper animals are often such sweet pets! One tell-tale behavior of theirs is to comfort you when you cry or are hurt. Many animals will just look at you oddly, but the caregiver will want to help you feel better. If it means settling in on your lap so you have to pet them, so be it! They may also cuddle up next to their distressed animal companions.
I have many stories of pets that come to live with their person to help get them through rough times – many people survive a major breakup or death of a loved one with the help of their loving cat, dog or other furry or feathered creature.
Although a caregiver can be transient like the healer, they more often stay with their person for a lifetime. In fact, you may not realize you have a caregiver until you need it, and then you may witness a shift and really see them in action.
Because of their dedication to help, caregivers often make great service animals (but a service animal isn’t always a caregiver!).
These animals can be on the edge of being exploited due to their kindness, so if you have a caregiver, be aware that you’re not taking advantage of them, and also that they are not over-extending themselves in trying to care for you. In human language, we might call this a martyr, and while I don’t think animals choose to martyr, the behavior can at times be similar. I just ask you to be sure they are well taken care of in return.
One thing to look for when having a caregiver in the house is that they are not taking on your “stuff.” Because they want you to feel better, they’ll try to carry the burden for you and can end up sick or unwell. It may be necessary to literally tell them they don’t have to take on your crap, that they only need be the loving, sweet pet they are. If energy is thick and stuck in your home, it may also make sense to have a healer work to clear them every once in a while.
For household success, you can give them jobs that employ their helpful characteristics, especially if it has to do with watching over another animal or person. They quite frequently find their own jobs, but don’t be afraid to ask them to “watch over Grandpa while I go out.”
As mentioned earlier, service or therapy type jobs are also high on their talent list. If you want a more physical job, look to their alternate archetypes and use those features to determine the kind of job or special training – however know that they’ll excel in a job that is completed for approval versus the love of the sport.
That’s how we are, and that’s how the animals are: different archetypes emerging at different times. Pay attention to the strongest qualities that your animal shows, and remember to play up or down the different qualities as needed.
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