Guides, and Spirits, and Totems, oh my!

Aside from writing books and blog posts, I also write tarot and oracle deck reviews for a friend that owns a metaphysical store. Today I began a review for a rather large tarot/oracle duo called The Ark By Bernadette King. (Large but fabulous, by the way). One aspect of this deck is how each animal within it can relate to a person as either a Spirit Animal, a Totem Animal, or a Power Animal. Now, I have seen these terms used almost interchangeably in some texts, but it is my understanding that they are all separate terms that relate to the different contexts/situations these amimals present themselves to a person, and therefore, also bring different meaning/messages from each animal. 
As I understand it, a Spirit Animal is one that may come to you in meditation, or presents itself to you in multiple forms (in person, in logos, in advertising, on tv, etc..), multiple times. You just seem to see them or hear about them everywhere. They seem to be trying to get your attention to give you a sign or a message you need to hear.
A Totem Animal is one you feel drawn to or a connection with.  Maybe you collect figurines or stuffies (I used to collect monkey related items, now I am drawn to dragons and wolves), they are your wallpaper (on your electronic devices), or you like to wear clothes that depict them. You may even donate to speicific charities to help them. Due to the connection you feel with them, they may likely represent a part of you, your personality, and/or your approach to life. 
Finally, a Power Animal is an animal that you feel has the energy or traits you are looking to call upon or bring into your life. This could be to help with a certain situation, to overcome something you are going through, or any other reason you may need to call on energies/traits you feel are needed, but that you lack. 
While there many books out there that explain the "meanings" given to each animal (Steven Farmer Ph.D animal guide books and oracle decks are also fabulous for this), one can get a feel for what they mean themselves by researching that particular animal, its characteristics, and habitat/lifestyle. Intuitively, you will find the information/meaning you need in the moment.  
This is only my understanding/experience, of course. How about you?