Greetings! I hope you are all doing well. This past week I was reminded of the special bonds that we humans share with our animal friends when I learned of three separate families whose pet crossed over in spirit just within a few days of each other. So, in remembrance of these precious souls, and in recognition of the animal friends still in our care, today I would like for us to talk about the benefits of Reiki for animals.
For those of you not familiar with Reiki (pronounced ray-key), it is a non-invasive, holistic healing modality that promotes relaxation and the body’s ability to heal. Through light touch, healing energy is transferred to the recipient via the Reiki practitioner. Reiki is appropriate for all areas where healing is needed, whether it is physical, spiritual, mental or emotional in nature.
Our animal friends are not much different than us humans, in that they are affected by situations in their day-to-day life. They experience a variety of emotions as well as physical issues and are at our mercy to resolve these issues for them.
With regards to illness or injury, Animal Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of promoting healing for our pets. Reiki is used as a complementary therapy, meaning it is not meant to replace the treatment of medical conditions by your pet’s veterinarian. Reiki will, however, complement and can be used in conjunction with traditional veterinary care by helping to relieve medication side effects and encourages quicker recovery or an ease in symptoms. This is beneficial for animals dealing with both chronic issues or acute medical conditions that arise. In my practice I treat animals with a variety of physical health problems ranging from diabetes to chronic arthritis pain, as well as infections, injuries or adverse reactions. While Reiki helps promote health and healing, it can also be used during end of life stages when it is important for our pets to feel physical and emotional comfort during their time of transition.
Reiki can also be used to help an animal work through certain emotional and behavior issues. These can include such things as difficulty with potty training or tendencies to mark territory, social anxiety, fears, nervousness, interactions with other pets and humans, accepting a leash, barking, and so much more. Reiki can also help ease the relocation of rescued animals from their prior situation into their new home environment by helping promote feelings of security, belonging, trust and acceptance. Reiki can help these animals overcome past emotional traumas and willingly accept human love once again. Through such organizations such as Shelter Animal Reiki Association (SARA), Reiki is gaining acceptance in animal shelters, rescue organizations and veterinary clinics across America.
Of course, Reiki does not have to be reserved for times of specific need. There are those occasions when there is no specific need other than providing Reiki as a special treat for your animal friend, much like we would treat ourselves to a day at the spa.
If you are interested in Reiki for your pet, I offer sessions tailored to your pet’s specific needs. I provide a relaxing and welcoming environment for your pet, similar to what I provide for my human clients. You are welcome into the treatment area with your pet, but I ask that pet-parents refrain from excessive parenting during this time, instead becoming observers and informants during the session. Within the guidelines of safety first, your pet will be free to familiarize themselves with the treatment area, with me and with the energy present in the room.
I begin by sitting quietly, offering Reiki to them from a distance. This is the time in which they will determine if they want to participate, and on what level. Typically, within a few minutes, they will settle down, either laying or sitting comfortably and calmly, often times positioning themselves to receive a hands-on treatment. There are animals, however, who prefer to receive Reiki from a short distance. It is important for your pet to agree to being treated and to then have their session carried out in the way that they are most comfortable with. As with humans, treatments vary from animal to animal and depending on the condition being addressed.
Animals have always held a special place in my life and I am blessed to be able to give back to the animal community with my healing gifts.
Namaste
DeAnna