by Corry Hamilton BSc. Biochemistry, Taking the Lead
Reiki is a Japanese form of energy healing that is a widely accepted form of complementary medicine. Reiki is a gentle, painless and non-invasive therapy for pets. It complements both traditional and holistic therapies. Reiki can enhance both therapies and lessen side effects from traditional medicine.
- Maintain health
- Heal physical illness and injury
- Deepen the bond between pet owners and their pets
- Reduce fear, anxiety and stress
- Heal emotional issues that result in behavioural problems
- Peaceful transition between life and death
Because our pets are so close and bond with us, they will often internalize and reflect our problems. An example of this would be if we are stressed at work and bring it home with us; our pets will sense this emotion and take it on as their feelings. This sympathetic connection can manifest itself as either a physical or emotional problem. Reiki heals not only the physical ailments but also the mental and emotional issues.
Reiki is extremely safe and there are no side effects. Animals are more sensitive to energy than people. How they react to the energy depends on their previous experience with people. Some pets will immediately settle down and accept the treatment, while others will seek to avoid it. The duration of a treatment varies from 30-60 minutes. The treatment can be hands on or delivered from a short distance. When receiving a treatment, your pet will enter a deep state of relaxation. After the treatment, your pet will generally drink more water and go to the bathroom more often, trying to expel the toxins.
In general, Reiki can bring about significant health improvements not necessarily a cure. The number of treatments necessary depends on the severity of the illness and how long your pet has suffered from the illness. The healing effects of Reiki treatments build upon one another. For healthy pets, a maintenance Reiki treatment every month will suffice. For pets suffering from minor health problems such as a cold or sprain, weekly treatments would be beneficial. For chronic conditions, such as arthritis, four consecutive treatments plus weekly treatments can help your pet manage pain. If your pet is seriously ill, they can receive treatments as often as necessary. Occasionally, pets will miraculously respond to treatment. In these cases, only a few treatments may be necessary.
Always discuss complementary treatments with your veterinarian. They should have a record of the complementary treatments you are using and be able to contact the animal health care consultant working with your pet.