Hi John,

I was reading Milton H. Erickson, M.D.: An American Healer (Great Book) by Bradford Keeney and Betty Alice Erickson last night and there was mention of Erickson enjoying watching Wild Kingdom. He also made up stories (metaphoric) about a frog named, I think, White Belly. for his grandchildren. Then, of course, there was the story of the fellow where Erickson used a dog in the treatment. Erickson kept the dog at his house and wrote letters to the man, from the dog.

I have no direct knowledge, but from what I have read and heard from people who did know him, Erickson seemed to love animals and nature; and utilized both in treatment with adults. Just my opinion…

Best wishes,


Joe O’Rourke