Because animals live in a world of senses, they feel and respond to the energy of people, activities, words and interactions. Sensing this energy helps animals navigate life well. If they sense a predator’s presence or an impending natural disaster, they can flee. If they sense that people have good intentions, they will walk right up to them–or avoid those that don’t. Companion animals can sense our moods, like Molly the Quaker Parrot did when I had a bad day; she’d cuddle up next to me to let me know I wasn’t alone. And some dogs have been known to bark when their people are arguing to call attention to it and help break the tension.

Because animals naturally sense and respond to energy, they respond well to energy work practices such as theta healing and Reiki. These modalities help increase relaxation, reduce anxiety and pain, and even ease the transition when dying. As a Reiki practitioner since 2005, I’ve seen this non-invasive technique–that originated in Japan more than 100 years ago and is now practiced worldwide–benefit many animals, from pets to livestock to exotic animals. This simple, effective tool particularly helps animals who are rescued or adopted feel more at ease as they transition to new environments and learn to trust new caregivers.

Because they are sensory beings, animals respond well to energy work. Photo courtesy of loveofanimals.ca.

In my own life, I’ve seen energy work benefit a cockatiel named Nacho. It wasn’t long after I’d taken guardianship of this feisty, whistling charmer from a rescue organization that we discovered he had liver failure. When antibiotics didn’t cure the issue, and the stress of multiple vet visits seemed to leave him more ragged than healthy, I faced the inevitability that Nacho would pass away soon. I decided to help his last days be as comfy as possible, full of favorite treats and peace and quiet at home. I also decided to try giving him Reiki treatments to increase his comfort.

Reiki with Nacho was simple and effective. When I put my hands up to share energy, he got very calm and seemed to enjoy the comforting Reiki energy as well as his time with me. And while I expected Nacho would pass away after a few months, I was wrong–he lived another three years. He had some low times, but he’d quickly perk up with a Reiki treatment. I truly believe that Reiki, along with his feisty nature, is what kept him alive so much longer than I’d expected.

Nacho the cockatiel responded very well to Reiki treatments.

Animals of all kinds respond well to energy work to help relax them, clear energy blocks and more. To try energy work as a tool to help your companion animal, contact one of the great organization that share Reiki with animals, including Reiki Fur Babies, Animal Reiki Source and Shelter Animal Reiki Association or schedule a reading with me, which includes Reiki as needed.

Read more about Nacho’s journey with Reiki by reading Jennafer’s article, “Reiki to the Rescue” in Pets in the City Magazine’s March 2013 issue.