Ojai-based pet psychic Laura Stinchfield explains her ability on her Web site, thepetpsychic.com, through a series of questions and answers.

Stinchfield can be contacted through her Web site, by e-mailing laura@thepetpsychic.com or by calling 895-5968.

Here are some frequently asked questions, according to Stinchfield:

How do you talk to animals?

I actually hear what the animal is saying in my voice in my head. My mind transfers the animal's thoughts, emotions and images into words. I may see pictures or have a sense of knowing. Other times, I may feel pain in my body where they are experiencing pain.

Are there animals you can't talk to?

Rarely, I will find a pet that is unresponsive. When I do, it is because they feel their people can talk to them just fine and they don't need me to get their feelings across. Others may be a bit frightened that a human can hear their thoughts. Usually, I can coax them into opening up.

Can anyone talk to animals?

I believe that anyone who is close to their animal is talking to their animal all the time. I also believe that mainly people pick up their animals' thoughts, feelings and images without even realizing it. As long as you are clearly connecting your thoughts and the pictures in your mind, your animal is receiving what you are saying to them or around them. Animals never say to me, "You are the only one who talks to me." They mostly say, "You are the only one that listens to me." It is important that once you talk to your animals that you sit quietly and listen to what they are saying back. With time and practice, you will be able to decipher what are your thoughts and what are the thoughts of your animals.

What are some questions people ask?

This varies greatly. Some people ask me to talk to their animal just for fun and curiosity. Others need consultations for more serious issues. Some questions people ask are: How are you feeling? What makes you feel better? What makes you feel worse? Do you like your training? How does your tack feel? Are you ready to go to heaven? Do you need help with the transition? Would you like a companion? We are going to be moving soon; I would like to tell you the details. Why are you doing a particular behavior? What can I do to help you let it go? Are you mad at me? Are you happy? Do you like your food? The list is endless.

Can you talk to animals that have passed?

Yes. I find this to be of great value to people who are suffering over the death of their animal. It is a wonderful way to aid in closure. Once our animals have passed they meet their old friends in heaven, their suffering is gone and replaced with bliss, they are given a job, and they are able to watch over us and protect us. They can give us amazing insight. It is only us that suffer when they leave us in body. Occasionally, usually during a traumatic death, an animal may be stuck and need help in transitioning into heaven. If that is so, I can help with that transition.