Renaming Sionnach the Fox
Animal Story, Blog, Foxes | August 25, 2011
We received an urgent call – could we take in a sweet fox who had been someone’s pet and now was abandoned? He had been living alone in a locked cabin with food being thrown in sporadically, and the situation was no longer tenable. The exterminator was scheduled for the next day so he needed a home immediately. Many considerations. . . we had no room – but it was life or death. We could try to put him in with our foxes Feather and Lightfoot and hope they got along. We would have to get permits as he was in Wyoming and he would be coming across state lines. Could we get them quickly enough? The laws had recently changed in Idaho and everyone in all the relevant offices were still uncertain about what was needed, making it even more complicated and lengthy. But a warm-hearted woman in the Idaho Fish and Game office had just seen a beautiful young fox killed on the road and was determined that this one would have a chance. With an infected wisdom tooth, while waiting to see the dentist, she managed to pull it off. Kindness. There are inspiring pockets of it in the world.
His original owner called him Sionnach, Irish for fox. He had bought him for a pet, then abandoned him and his girlfriend, who did the best she could but was unprepared to take care of a wild animal she hadn’t asked for.
Sionnach came over the next day, one panicked little animal. We put him in with Feather and Lightfoot while still protected by the crate, so Jean could assess if it would be safe to let him out. Finally we opened the door. He raced for the darkest corner and cowered. For days. We hoped that seeing the other foxes trusting and liking humans, relaxed and happy, would reassure him, but apparently he had been pretty well traumatized. He was especially afraid of men.
He finally unfroze enough to leap on the wooden platform and hide behind the box there, which is where he still mostly remains. We did notice that food left out for him disappeared. . . always a good sign that an animal wants to live. We have had some who refused to eat, their terror was so great.
The second weekend he was here we had a retreat led by an animal communicator and healer. She spontaneously came to us saying we had to change his name. He was all tight and constricted inside and it was important to find a name for him that implies expansion. If that is the image we have in our heads, she said, it will communicate that feel to him. The name would help us maintain that image, which might help him feel safe to expand and relax.
So dear reader. . . we are open to suggestions. He is 3 years old and has a long potential life ahead of him. Feather for example is going on 14. We would like to do whatever we can to help him heal, from good food and companionship to changing his name, if that might help. We look forward to hearing from you. . .
Nomad Lives by Jennifer Sauer
Why not call him Easy?
Comment by Sarah Bowen — August 25, 2011 @ 3:17 pm
How about Harry? A good name for a sweet guy!
Comment by SSweetie — August 25, 2011 @ 3:30 pm
How ’bout Vita (Italian for life) or Elu (Estonian for life), pronounced eh-loo?
He’s so beautiful. I have no doubt he will flourish with all of your love!
Regards . . .
Sara
Comment by Sara — August 25, 2011 @ 3:34 pm
Falcor. From the 1984 movie The NeverEnding Sory.
When I saw the last photo on here, I just could not look away to finish what you had written about him. And all I could think of is that he has a huge heart, very courageous (normally), and wise well beyond his years. And that he deserved to have a name that resembles that. Then I had an image of the dog/wolf/dragon that was in the movie The NeverEnding Story.
Comment by Allaria — August 25, 2011 @ 3:49 pm
How about Noah? It means “rest, peace”
Light to you on your journey and to all the creatures lucky enough to be in your care.
Comment by Miriam — August 25, 2011 @ 4:05 pm
he said Mordecai… no idea why or what that is all about but I go with what I get from them
Comment by Diana — August 25, 2011 @ 4:09 pm
Because he is aware of his name you need to talk to him and see which name he responds in a positive way to. He will know what his name should be. I have a friend that is an animal communicator and each animal she comes in contact with knows what they want to be called. Here are some suggestions that I like…….
Aditi
Means “boundless, entire” or “freedom, security” in Sanskrit. This is the name of the ancient Hindu mother goddess of the sky and fertility.
Ikaika
Meaning & History
Means “strong” in Hawaiian.
KEKOA
Means “the brave one” in Hawaiian.
Mordecai – is the one my communicator friend says that he wants to use.
Mordecai \m(o)-rde-cai, mor-decai\ as a boy’s name is of Hebrew origin, and the meaning of Mordecai is “little man”. Also possibly “follower of Marduk, a god of the Babylonians”. Biblical name. In the Talmud, the name is of Aramaic origin, from “mara dachya” meaning “pure myrrh”, the aromatic resin which was used in incense.
Good luck and please update!
Comment by B. Adams — August 25, 2011 @ 4:09 pm
My first thought, Sky.
Comment by Sylvee — August 25, 2011 @ 4:57 pm
Hi – when she was talking about an “expansive” name during our retreat, my first thought was “Starlight” – especially for his beautiful eyes and fox glow. How wonderful to see this photo of him!
Comment by Katie Cumming — August 25, 2011 @ 5:16 pm
Thank you so much for what you are doing. What a dear little creature this fox is! You just reminded me by reading this that it is time to make another donation. You guys rock! I still want to bring a tracking class up there at some point for a retreat, but I have too many other items at the school that have to come first.
Comment by Sam — August 25, 2011 @ 5:21 pm
I like “Teton” or “Jackson” (Jackson Hole) for him.
Comment by Dana Z — August 25, 2011 @ 5:24 pm
Such a beautiful boy – and you continue to amaze and inspire me with the graciousness of your hearts in caring for and loving these magnificent beings. The first name that came to me was “Genesis” – new beginnings, expanding into his loving Universe. (I had the sweetest doggy named Genesis who had been abandoned and he lived totally up to the name – an inspiration every day of his life – and beyond.) Much love, Maureen
Comment by Maureen — August 25, 2011 @ 5:25 pm
How about WELCOME.
Not a harsh word and it sounds “soft” in the mouth.
Comment by Tina — August 25, 2011 @ 5:26 pm
Call him Serenity or Serene. What a beautiful joyous baby. Thank you for taking him in. His is Gods gift…. Good Luck!
Comment by Robin Bush — August 25, 2011 @ 5:31 pm
Sky, Air, Horizon, Hope or Cloud
Comment by Gina — August 25, 2011 @ 5:32 pm
How about Sage. He is full of wisdom, just waiting to be brought out by your tender, loving and understanding care. Bless you for your work.
Comment by Donna — August 25, 2011 @ 5:44 pm
My heart chakra opened up when I read the suggested name “Sky.” I second the vote.
Comment by Debbie Noyes — August 25, 2011 @ 5:44 pm
I just red your article about the sweet fox and the
name that came to mind was ESPAVO….which means..
THANK YOU FOR TAKING YOUR POWER
Whatever name he becomes….I send healing energy and much love his way.
Comment by Delene — August 25, 2011 @ 5:50 pm
Onatah – “of the earth” (Iriquois)
Nova – Latin for “new”
Comment by Johanna — August 25, 2011 @ 5:52 pm
Hi – I like Katie’s suggestion, “STARLIGHT”. When I was there for CALL OF THE WILD, I was totally surprised and astounded when I turned and saw him tucked in his corner with his eyes blazing and looking directly into mine. It nearly knocked me back it was such a shock. So I thought of BLAZE as a name but STARLIGHT is gentle and expansive. I like it… Jan
Comment by Jan Dugan — August 25, 2011 @ 5:57 pm
He is wonderful. I remember his energy and heart (although I did not see him during the AC retreat). I have not received a name from him as yet but also resonated with Sky or Skye but a different version. Skyler. Here is some information about Skyler:
Skyler meaning and name origin
Skyler \s-ky-ler\ as a boy’s name (also used as girl’s name Skyler), is pronounced SKY-ler. It is of Danish origin, and the meaning of Skyler is “fugitive; giving shelter”. Phonetic spelling of Schuyler, brought to New York by 17th-century settlers.
Skyler has 9 variant forms: Schuyler, Schyler, Skielar, Skielor, Skyelar, Skylar, Skylen, Skyller and Skylor.
For more information, see also the related name Skye.
(I find it interesting that Skyler means “giving shelter”)
Comment by Janet — August 25, 2011 @ 6:01 pm
I like Skye too – he has the whole world open to him. And I agree that asking him if this sounds like his name is important. See what he responds to, what feeling you get when you address him by a particular name, if he’s not reacting physically.
Comment by Jill — August 25, 2011 @ 6:01 pm
I’ve been looking for something appropriate for this guy. He’s been through so much and look at his face so full of wisdom…
A few I’ve found but not sure I’m happy with any yet:
ELPIDIO: Italian and Spanish form of Latin Elpidius, meaning “hope.”
FAUSTO: Italian, Portuguese and Spanish form of Roman Latin Faustus, meaning “lucky.”
PROSPERO: Italian and Spanish form of Latin Prosperus, meaning “fortunate, successful.” Shakespeare used this name in his play “The Tempest.”
I am still trying to find a good name meaning noble because that’s what I see in this gorgeous animal…
Comment by Dara — August 25, 2011 @ 6:02 pm
Now that I’ve re-read everyone’s opinions may I second the vote for Sage…very appropriate!!!
Dara
Comment by Dara — August 25, 2011 @ 6:08 pm
“SPIRIT” keeps coming thru!
Many Blessings for all the beautiful work you do at the institute.
Comment by Gail — August 25, 2011 @ 6:12 pm
Sage
Comment by Jamie — August 25, 2011 @ 6:25 pm
My son wanted to help and he votes for Segura meaning safe and secure.
Comment by Dara — August 25, 2011 @ 6:35 pm
Kinal (read as keenal), means at the same time music, light, sun and the world. So is kind of “the world as a place for sun, music and light”.
Hugs and love!!!
Miss you so much
Comment by Jxel — August 25, 2011 @ 6:48 pm
jajaja, in mayan, of course…..
in a language called tojol ‘abal.
Comment by Jxel — August 25, 2011 @ 6:49 pm
HIRAKU meaning “open, expand” (?) – Japanese boy name.
HIRO meaning “generous” (?) – Japanese unisex name.
HIROAKI meaning “wide, spacious light” (??) – Japanese boy name.
HIROKI meaning “vast timber trees” (??) – Japanese boy name.
HIRONORI meaning “chronical of command, esteem” (??) – Japanese boy name.
HIROSHI meaning “generous” (?) – Japanese boy name.
HIROTO meaning “great,large flying”
I think this guy is Hero so I like that as a name to… The Japanese names I have post all have the Hero feel to me also…. I love you guys so much for what you are doing… XOXO
Comment by Connie Troupe — August 25, 2011 @ 6:50 pm
I like “copper” as a name, playful, yet of the earth, and kinda his coloring. thank you for your kindness.
Comment by Wendy — August 25, 2011 @ 7:12 pm
Read all these and believe his name should be Sky, too. He is beautiful and I will look eagerly for updates.
Comment by Leslie Stewart — August 25, 2011 @ 7:15 pm
Being brought to a new native land (Idaho to Wyoming). This young man is deserving of a traditional Native American name. While Shoshone is native to his new home, their translations were hard to find. So in my searches, when I read this meaning it immediately brought joy to my heart and tears to my eyes. This translation was not associated to any tribe, but a general Native American meaning.
Onida: meaning “the one searched for”
Comment by Lori Yttri — August 25, 2011 @ 7:20 pm
I thought Falcor as a name while looking at him before reading that another person also thought that!
I also love the meaning and sound of Aditi. Welcome is a wonderful name; it has a lovely feeling when spoken aloud.
I agree that you should ask him what he thinks of all these names. He’ll know.
Comment by Blaze Schwaller — August 25, 2011 @ 7:25 pm
Sage. yes, try Sage.
Comment by Leigh — August 25, 2011 @ 7:29 pm
“Prana” which means “life force”, since it seems this beautiful boy wants to live also it is “vital energy mainly breath”. It seems he needs to breath again to relax and trust. All the best with him. On my wish is to come see you all one day.
Peace and light.
Colleen
Comment by Colleen — August 25, 2011 @ 7:43 pm
I LOVED Falcor in The NeverEnding Story. A good suggestion. I also love Sky: strong, graceful, expansive, will overcome all suffering.
I also loved the Japanese Hiro which has its own noble delicacy. I agree with the responders who have asked that you speak the favorite names to the lovely fox. He will respond. But first and foremost, he will concentrate on healing, thriving, trusting, growing.
With a grateful heart to you all at EI, I am Mary.
Comment by Mary — August 25, 2011 @ 8:08 pm
… skye
Comment by gaelynne — August 25, 2011 @ 8:12 pm
Sweetie. Earlier this summer I spent 30 minutes talking to a deer in my yard. I called him Sweetie and he lay down. The other day, I spent 45 minutes talking to a bull moose in my backyard. I called him Sweetie and spoke to him kindly. He sat, he lay, he put his head down and went to sleep. Sweetie in a soft voice.
Comment by Merle Lundy — August 25, 2011 @ 8:12 pm
When I thought of him I heard ‘Ralick’ or ‘rally’ in my head which to me doesn’t translate to expansion, BUT upon investigation one definition of Ralick is Sunset and one definition of rally is to unify. Take that as you will. Best wishes for the courageous little dude.
Comment by Claire — August 25, 2011 @ 8:33 pm
Before reading the comments I thought of warmth and light as most representing expansion. The Apache credited the fox with giving man fire. I felt like the name Blaze best represented that (as did comment #20). Hero and Spirit also came to mind as some others commented.
Comment by Julie — August 25, 2011 @ 8:43 pm
You could name him, Pilaechech (pronounced Pee Lie Ketch – emphasis on the Lie) which is Lenape for boy. Or, Winkalit (I imagine is pronounced just as it looks) Lenape for friend.
Comment by Lorraine — August 25, 2011 @ 9:01 pm
Poor guy. Must have been terrified.
Comment by Lorraine — August 25, 2011 @ 9:03 pm
I would call him Horizon. I see the horizon through his eyes…an actual and spiritual horizon forthcoming of trust and peace between two worlds, as is your compassionate mission. Where before his spirit was confined, through your kindness he can actualize internally through healing connectedness and become open to his world now as far as he can dream.
Comment by Karin — August 25, 2011 @ 9:04 pm
How about Tango?
Thank you for all you do for the animals.Best whishes for the bravo fox.
Comment by Patricia H — August 25, 2011 @ 9:12 pm
Ameya – It means BOUNDLESS in Sanskrit.
Comment by Darlene Stout — August 25, 2011 @ 9:13 pm
Dearest Susan…..I just had to submit this name…looking at those beautiful eyes:
Presence. You have a number of beautiful names…I look forward to see what you pick…you are so wonderful at this. He is a very beautiful fox, and soul!
I’ll call you VERY soon…Florida is HOT and interesting. I LOVE reading the animal stories!!!! Love -always,Kris
Comment by Kris — August 25, 2011 @ 9:23 pm
I am deeply moved by your newsletter and the way you represent and care for the animals. When the newsletter comes to my email, it is the first thing I want to read!! It feeds my very being each time and I drink in each story and report of the animals. They feel like my family. The name I got for this divine boy is Echo Braveheart………it just what came…….
Comment by Diana Breen — August 25, 2011 @ 9:53 pm
Nasungkwa’ah – feeling good, being happy
Shoshone dictionary By Jon Philip Dayley
He should have an Indian name from the area he came from.
http://books.google.com/books?id=rBweNGy2aGMC&pg=PA414&lpg=PA414&dq=how+do+you+say+fox+in+Shoshone&source=bl&ots=yn4ZpN8DU7&sig=zhIw3mps_pqwzA4qfHzQR2d-UHI&hl=en&ei=4flWTuj1LrTIsQLc54SQDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&sqi=2&ved=0CE0Q6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=happy&f=false
Comment by Dona J. Buckmann — August 25, 2011 @ 10:06 pm
I was thinking Sun or Sunshine but I really like Sky also and I think Tango is a great name. I think you need to ask him. He will let you know which one he likes best.
Comment by RENEE — August 25, 2011 @ 10:26 pm
Beamer(beam: to send forth or emit)
Shiner (one who shines)
Ray
Comment by Jules — August 25, 2011 @ 10:32 pm
Sunburst, since he is a sunny color and waiting to burst out of his shell
Comment by Abram Mamet — August 25, 2011 @ 10:40 pm
Please, please don’t get cute and clever and quirky with an unprnounceable name that merely adds to the burden this little guy is already carrying.
Why not just SKY!?!
Comment by Connie Glavin — August 25, 2011 @ 10:56 pm
How about Fenix (pronounced Phoenix and keeping the “F” theme of the foxes: Feather, LightFoot, and Firefly)?
I also think if you present him with the names and describe what they mean or the feeling, this lovely fox will make a choice and feel empowered by his decision — a first step in his growth toward peace. He will know he is in the most special place and revel in being part of the Earthfire clan.
Comment by Diane — August 25, 2011 @ 11:17 pm
I like the name “Ananda” which means Supreme Bliss. I also like the suggestion of “Skye”. Thank you for the beautiful story and your tender mercy towards the animals.
Comment by Janice — August 26, 2011 @ 12:03 am
I like Starlight. As I look at his beautiful pictures, I also get Starfire with the amazing coloring and light around his face. He really is beautiful when you see him like this – so alive and shining.
Comment by Terri H — August 26, 2011 @ 12:05 am
Wow, I vote for Sage or Skye. God Bless you all, what a sweet boy. Please keep us posted on his progress.
Comment by Kris — August 26, 2011 @ 12:07 am
I vote for “Nova” meaning “new”….animals recognize 2 syllables I was once told. Perfect for this guy.
Comment by Donna — August 26, 2011 @ 1:18 am
What an incredible difference in the first picture of him arriving at EI and the last — he looked so terrified in the first and the last picture, well, he looks content. He is extraordinary looking and indeed wise beyond his physical body. I love Skye but again, he must decide. Will be interesting to see what is chosen. He is blessed to be at the Institute. He will have a good life amongst his kind.
Comment by Linda — August 26, 2011 @ 1:51 am
Mordecai ….dont know why I am suggesting this..i dont even know what this means….
If you dont mind, I would like to include him in the Medicine Buddha prayers…
Comment by Ogyen Lhamo — August 26, 2011 @ 4:27 am
Sunshine OR Skye
Comment by Amita — August 26, 2011 @ 4:53 am
here are a few names i like for him:
Isra – turkish for freedom
Javier – spanish for new house
Ketan – hindi for home
Ziven – polish for alive
Ezekial – hebrew for strength of god
Comment by Azzi — August 26, 2011 @ 6:10 am
Amigo-is the Portuguese and Spanish word for “friend” in the masculine:)I know his heart and spirit would feel the love, immediately!
Comment by Jana — August 26, 2011 @ 8:42 am
Beautiful baby and beautiful story. I love how everyone comes together here to make it happen. This just shows how we are truly all connected.
I think “Matrix” would be a great name for this beautiful male fox. It represents expansion and connectivity….
OR if you want to keep it simple…”Stretch” works too (:
Love & Gratitude for all that you do,
Michele
Comment by Michele Domingo — August 26, 2011 @ 9:45 am
Name him “Be”. So simple, yet what we all aspire to is just to “Be”. Not only will it be a name, but an affirmation each time he hears it.
thank you so, so much for all you do at Earthfire!
Comment by Jennifer — August 26, 2011 @ 10:44 am
I like the names Sage or Aldo. The names both mean wise. I also like the suggestion of Fenix since it represents rising from the fire and being renewed. I just love the photo you have of him. He deserves all the love and kindness he can get.
Comment by Roxanne — August 26, 2011 @ 11:02 am
I like Cayden- which means spirit of battle,or Keeley,beautiful and Gracious;I aslo like Skye:)
Comment by Nickole Rinde — August 26, 2011 @ 11:11 am
Tikana – taken from the word “kupatikana” which means
“found” in Swahili.
Comment by Stephan — August 26, 2011 @ 12:25 pm
Did you run the names past him yet? Which names did he respond to? I like Starlight, Amigo and Skye. Did he like any of those?
Thanks for taking him in, very beautiful animal. He will flourish there.
Comment by Kimry — August 26, 2011 @ 4:59 pm
Looking at that face and those eyes, the name Sky is the first thing that came to me as well. He’s beautiful. Thank you for caring so much.
Comment by Karen — August 26, 2011 @ 6:36 pm
Quite a few like the name sky, as do I, but now I’m thinking Jojo. C’mere, Jojo! Jojo seems bouncy and fun and care free.
Comment by Karen — August 26, 2011 @ 7:15 pm
Prayers and peaceful vibrations for the little fox from Michigan! How about Takoda? It means ‘friend to everyone’ in Sioux.
Comment by Jen — August 26, 2011 @ 9:10 pm
When I saw his face – he has the face of a bandit, but Sunshine in his heart. I agree with Sunshine. I agree that he should choose. His soul knows & will convey his choice to you. What a gift! He to you & you to him… and to all of us with your kind sharing.
oxox, S…
Comment by Shanimah — August 27, 2011 @ 12:05 am
I think Sky is perfect.
the other word that came to me, (and one other previous) is phoenix, for a new beginning and arising from the past. Thanks to you and Jean for all your wonderful work.
Comment by vera — August 27, 2011 @ 12:44 am
Another name that came to me is “Cirrus McCloud”.
Comment by Janice — August 27, 2011 @ 1:02 am
why not ” LOVE” , always growing, always inspiring, always true and good, love never dies.
Comment by janice — August 27, 2011 @ 3:27 am
this is not a name suggestion, but just an observation…..looking at that face….into those beautiful eyes……..looks like he has an old soul…..like he is full of wisdom for the whole world…if only they will listen………
Comment by janice — August 27, 2011 @ 3:30 am
River…I feel that is what he would like to be near right now….the freedom that is natural to him…expansive open meadows, with a “River” running through it….Thank You for rescuing this beauty!
Comment by Ramona Coyote — August 28, 2011 @ 9:23 am
…as a weaver/fiber artist I couldn’t help but notice the change in this fox’s coat….much less his eyes….though still cautious…. I see that Earthfire’s love and care has brought about a richer, multi colored/textured coat …and more relaxed eyes….well…much like a weaving that has the supportive structure of “the warp”( Earthfire)…”the weft” grows rich and lush in this support…this lovely, skillfull fox should be our “WEFT” for all time…..
Comment by Judith Austin — August 29, 2011 @ 9:37 pm
Why not “River”? =)
Comment by Kah — August 30, 2011 @ 7:53 am
Thank-you for your soulful work. I’m sure doing this work you see many blessings. I was going to suggest naming him “Love”. Then I read the suggestion above to name him “Starlight”. That felt so right to me I would like to second it.
Thank-you again for loving and caring for the animals!
Comment by Rev. Cindy Norlinger Spirit Hawk — August 31, 2011 @ 2:21 am
“Akasha”. Akasha is a Sanskrit term meaning “upper sky” or “ethereal space”. Now that this poor creature has been released from his prison and from his tormentor, I am sure his soul is now soaring in “ethereal space”!
Comment by Marie E. LeBLanc — August 31, 2011 @ 1:22 pm
His eyes are so intelligent, resourceful and alert.
Can you find a native expression for ‘takes it all in’?
Comment by Heather — September 1, 2011 @ 9:15 pm
How about “Inspiration”. It comes to me from “inspire”, which means to breathe in. When you breathe in, you bring new life and potential to you, it opens everything up – to even manifest creation. Physically it’s an expansion, and energetically it transcends to new life.
Comment by Ximena Delgado-Roldan — September 3, 2011 @ 2:53 pm
Particularly fond of “Fenix”, rising out of the ashes to greatness. Thank you for the wonderful work you are doing.
Comment by Jen Gould — September 5, 2011 @ 9:53 pm
I love “Sky” because it is expansive, open, changing and yet consistent. What does helike?
Comment by Aimee — September 10, 2011 @ 5:23 pm
What about Mahpee which is Sioux for sky? Thanks for the blessings you bring to the animals.
Comment by Karen — September 11, 2011 @ 10:52 pm