Natural Animals is an education-focused space exploring how animals support their own wellbeing through choice.

What you can learn here

This site is being developed as an education-focused space exploring animal self-medication and self-selection through observation, scientific context, and ethical restraint.

Learning here focuses on:

  • understanding how animals interact meaningfully with their environment

  • recognising patterns without over-interpretation

  • appreciating species-specific differences while identifying shared principles

Teaching is structured to reduce overwhelm, prioritise clarity, and support thoughtful, informed decision-making — rather than instruction or dependency.

Learn more about how this works

This work may be for you if…

  • You want to understand why animals make the choices they do

  • You value careful observation over quick fixes

  • You’re interested in ethical, evidence-informed ways of supporting animal wellbeing

This work may not be for you if…

  • You’re looking for prescriptive protocols or step-by-step instructions

  • You want guaranteed outcomes

  • You prefer certainty over complexity

Learning pathways by species

While the underlying principles explored here extend across species, much of the teaching is organised through species-specific pathways to keep learning grounded, relevant, and accessible.

Current and planned areas of focus include:

  • Dogs — observation, choice, and regulation in domestic environments

  • Cats — subtle self-selection, scent interaction, and autonomy

  • Horses — environmental engagement and species-specific needs

  • Poultry — natural behaviours, environmental choice, and resilience

Additional species, including smaller companion animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, may be referenced where relevant, while always respecting species-specific differences.

This work is shaped by long-term observation, formal training, and a deep respect for animal agency. Rather than offering quick fixes or prescriptive methods, the focus is on understanding — learning when to intervene thoughtfully, and when not to intervene at all.

Education here is intended to build confidence, clarity, and discernment — not dependency.

A thoughtful, ethical approach

This site is continuing to grow, with new material added over time.