A mixed methods exploratory study of alleged telepathic interspecies communication with domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

Abstract

Telepathic parapsychology research is a subject of much debate (Alcock, 2010; Hyman, 2010; Bierman, 2001; Tressoldi, 2012). This dissertation explored the proposition that telepathic communication between humans and canines may be possible by a human utilizing contemplative/meditative techniques to shift consciousness into a pattern similar to daydreaming or to the hypnagogic and hypnopompic states on the edge of sleep.

The researcher completed 50 animal communication sessions with canine guardians who were located in one of 36 other cities. The researcher prepared for each session by utilizing meditative/contemplative techniques and then telephoned the guardian before beginning each session. The sessions were recorded and consisted of standardized questions as well as guardian's questions. The answers, allegedly received telepathically from the canines, were recorded by the researcher on an on-line survey and communicated back to the guardians. The guardians used Likert Scales to rate the accuracy of three quantitative questions from 1 (entirely inaccurate) to 6 (entirely accurate). The qualitative data was analyzed by determining common issues as identified by the guardian's questions.

For this exploratory research the average overall accuracy rating as judged by the guardians across all 50 sessions was 5.12. An analysis of the qualitative data indicated several common canine issues, such as canines reactive to other dogs in public, canines reactive to strangers entering their home, conflicts between canines in a multi-dog household, affection between canines in a multi-dog household, physical health issues, and emotional/spiritual support issues.

The results of this study contribute to the body of research into animal cognition and consciousness (Allen, 2009; Block, 1995; Dretske, 1995; Gallup, 1970; Gallup, Anderson & Shillito, 2002). The findings further contribute to interanimal empathy studies (de Waal & Lanting, 1997; Savage-Rumbaugh & Lewin, 1996; Bates et al., 2008; Douglas-Hamilton, Bhalla, Wittemyer, & Vollrath, 2006; Holmes & Neil, 2012) as well as the wealth of literature that supports the human-animal bond. Further research is needed to explore additional nuances of this category of parapsychological research.