| We normally associate Reiki, the ancient Japanese | | | | a treatment table, most dogs prefer to sit or lie |
| form of touch therapy, as a form of healing only | | | | down either on the floor, in a comfortable chair or on |
| practiced on humans. The growing popularity of | | | | their owner's lap. |
| keeping dogs as pets has seen many owners turning | | | | When a hands-on approach is taken the therapist |
| to Reiki therapists to treat their animals. | | | | uses a fixed set of hand positions suitable for dogs. |
| Reiki is a powerful natural therapy; it is a safe, gentle | | | | This is a gentle process that dogs find soothing and |
| form of holistic healing that is eminently suitable for | | | | welcoming. |
| both humans and animals. When treating your dog a | | | | Some dogs will be nervous, aggressive or just simply |
| Reiki therapist channels energy through themselves, | | | | prefer not to be touched by strangers; they will |
| and into the patient. This energy flow can be | | | | often be more comfortable receiving the Reiki from |
| administered either in a "hands-on" way or it can | | | | a distance. This approach works equally well; the |
| make use of a "distance healing" approach. The dog | | | | energy flow works just the same as it does if given |
| will usually determine the type of approach they | | | | "hands-on". |
| prefer and the length of the treatment session. | | | | Dogs respond well to Reiki, treatment is particularly |
| When your dog feels he/she has had enough they | | | | successful in treating muscular aches, pains, back |
| will generally walk away. | | | | problems and strains. It can reduce stress, anxiety, |
| The therapy sessions will vary in length, the number | | | | nervousness and skin or coat problems and it is often |
| required and the approach being taken. Generally the | | | | used to help dogs with behaviour problems. |
| first session will involve the therapist familiarizing | | | | If you are contemplating using Reiki therapy for your |
| themselves with your dog and establishing a rapport. | | | | dog it is worth bearing in mind that, in the UK, any |
| They will then ask what you are trying to achieve | | | | sick animal must be taken to a vet, so any |
| and gather background information about your pets | | | | alternative therapy practitioner working with animals |
| health and lifestyle. After the first visit any further | | | | will need a referral from a veterinary surgeon in order |
| sessions will typically last for 15 to 45 minutes. | | | | to treat your pet legally. |
| In a healing session there is generally no use made of | | | | |