A Witch's Ally: Building a Magical Relationship with Animal Familiars & Companions

by Dodie Graham McKay, Kelden (foreword)

From the earliest grimoires, animals have been associated with witches. This book covers all aspects of working magic with familiars and how to create profound relationships with your own pets. Dodie Graham McKay shares folklore and historical information as well as practical exercises and spells.

Featuring a cover illustration by Laura Tempest Zakroff and deep insight on how to witches relate to their familiars and companions, this book helps you work with animal energy through dozens of charms, recipes, rituals, and more. Dodie takes you back in time to explore supernatural entities and long-ago symbolism. Then she delves into modern ways to understand animals and partner with them—including stories about her relationship with animals. From making pumpkin oat dog biscuits to shapeshifting via dance, this book will enrich your experiences with the animals in your life.

Genres: Witchcraft

232 pages, Paperback

Published September 8, 2024

Reviews

[Elyse Welles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! So did my own animal companions. though none of them are familiars, they all enjoyed reading this with me!

I particularly recommend this to people who are interested in the theories behind familiars and the history there. The workings in this book are few but powerful, particularly if you utilize shamanic principles in your magic, this book will be of interest to you, especially the fellow drummers out there!

I also really enjoyed the many new perspectives. I learned about when it comes to working with animals and Magic, including animal parts. I also always appreciate the way that McKay is able to approach delicate issues with such care and respect, especially in regards to native practices.

[Calamity Ayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this book, and it was even better than I’d anticipated! Folklore and research combine with history and practical workings throughout the book. The scholarly aspects of the history and folklore have given me a better understanding of witchcraft in general; the detailed history of witches and their pets, companion animals and familiars was fascinating. The magical workings and rituals are detailed, and accessible- I’m especially looking forward to making a healing poppet, among other things. Overall an excellent title to add to any witch’s library- I can tell I’ll be selling this title in my bookshop for years to come.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how the author weaves in and grounds this book with personal experience and connection with animal companions. She deeply honours and respects the more-than-human world as imbued with a will and autonomy all its own that we may learn from and be in relationship with if we are willing to listen on a deeper level.

[Enfys · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Witch's Ally" opened my eyes to the multifaceted nature of working with familiars and animal spirits. This is a thorough, well-researched, compassionate and practical guide to working with animal friends in magickal practice.