By Sarah Edwards Keeling | SpiritHeart Animal Healing & Communication

If you live with animals, you probably know that no two are the same. Some are affectionate and chatty, others are quiet or distant. Some seem wise beyond their years, while others feel dreamy or a little lost.

That difference isn’t just personality — it’s also about their soul.

When we talk about animal communication, we’re really connecting with both their personality and their soul. Their personality is who they are in this lifetime, shaped by experiences and instincts. Their soul is the part that stays the same through all their lifetimes. Understanding this difference makes a huge difference in how we connect and bond with our animals.

Here’s a guide to communicating with your animal based on different soul groups.

Group 1 – Brand New Souls

Some animals are very new to being here — it might be their first lifetime, or the first time they’ve been this kind of animal.

These souls are curious, innocent, and often a little dreamy. They live in their own world, exploring everything around them, and may not respond strongly to humans at first.

From a communication perspective, they can be tricky. They don’t have much to say yet — no big stories or strong emotions — and they’re mostly learning to be here.

Connecting with new souls takes patience. Sit quietly, observe, and let them explore at their own pace. Even small gestures, glances, or nudges can be their way of communicating.

They remind us to slow down and value silence as its own form of connection.

Group 2 – Souls Who Have Experienced Trauma or Neglect

Some animals have lived before and carry experiences that haven’t been easy. They may have known neglect, abandonment, or trauma in this life or another.

These animals can struggle with trust. Their personality might make them cautious, anxious, or reactive, but underneath it is a soul that wants to feel safe and understood.

Communicating with these pets takes time. Trust can’t be rushed, and they need consistency, patience, and reassurance.

Once trust grows, they can surprise you with their depth and sensitivity. Their soul shines through even if their personality seems guarded. They don’t need fixing — they just need to be heard, respected, and given space.

Group 3 – Old Souls

Old souls have been here many times before, and it shows.

These animals often feel calm, grounded, and quietly wise. Their personality in this lifetime might be playful, serious, or stubborn, but underneath, their soul carries a sense of knowing.

Connecting with old soul animals is subtle. Look for gestures, body language, and small behaviours rather than expecting words or obvious signals. They show us that presence matters more than words — sometimes just being together quietly is enough.

Group 4 – Old Souls With a Purpose

Some animals arrive with a clear mission. These are often service animals, therapy animals, or devoted companions with a very special bond to one person.

Their personality might be gentle, focused, or highly energetic, but their soul carries purpose. They are deeply tuned in to their human and often seem to know what’s needed before you do.

Communicating with them is usually clear and direct. They give a lot — emotionally and energetically — and they need support and care in return.

A Loving Reminder for Animal Guardians

Every animal is a mix of soul and personality. Their personality is who they are in this life; their soul is the part that stays the same through time.

Some animals will be obvious and chatty in their communication. Others will be quiet, mysterious, or independent. Some will test your patience, while others will teach you lessons you didn’t expect.

The most important things you can offer any animal are:

• Consistency
• Patience
• Respect
• Presence

When we meet our animals where they truly are, instead of where we expect them to be, communication flows more easily — and the bond becomes far deeper than we imagined.