Hi-
I've practiced them..
They are a Taoist, active form of qigong. I guess I would describe them as shamanistic.
The animal experience you mention could happen with any form of qigong or good energywork. It simply has to do with energy and being open. I think you have to be at a higher level of physical movement ability to enjoy them, and get any benefit from them. I revisit them occassionally, but know more about them in hindsight, having taken SFQ. They are not taught with much detail, other than the movement itself. In my opinion, they are not as good, in and of themselves, as the balanced qigong "program" (active/inactive) offered as SFQ. I do like them though, and, their purpose is for healing. I will send you a bit more info in an email.