Animal Empathy is the supernatural ability to understand and communicate with animals on an emotional level to a certain extent.
Due to their shapeshifting abilities, Skinwalkers share a deep connection with animals. As such, they can understand animals to a certain extent. Although they are not truly capable of communicating with animals, Skinwalkers can sense when animals are afraid, agitated or in pain. As most animals possess a sixth sense for upcoming natural and supernatural events, as well as reacting strongly to the presence of supernatural beings, Skinwalkers often head this as a warning of upcoming trouble.
Additionally, Skinwalkers can exert a certain influence to animals with their own emotions. They can use this ability to calm animals down when they are agitated or afraid, or use this influence to rile them up.