Reiki for Animals

I thought this was an interesting article. I too would like to expand my practice to animals!

REIKI FOR ROVER: Pets treated like masters at Braintree holistic center
Susan Czemmel, owner Woof and Whimsy Holistic Pet Center in Braintree, performs Reiki on dogs including Nestlé, pictured here.

GARY HIGGINS/The Patriot Ledger
Czemmel performs Reiki on Hendrix with owner Ann Brum.
Henry enjoys the hands-on treatment.
By Valerie A. Russo

For Living Well
Posted Jan 20, 2010 @ 05:00 AM
Last update Jan 20, 2010 @ 10:34 AM

BRAINTREE — When Susan Czemmel lights the lavender incense and soy candles, turns on soothing New Age music, dims the lights and spreads a mat on the floor, her black Labrador retriever comes over and lies down. Nestlé knows it’s time for bliss – 20 minutes of Reiki.

Nestlé is one of the demonstration dogs in the new Zen Den at the Woof and Whimsy holistic pet center (woofandwhimsy.com) in Weymouth Landing, where Czemmel, the owner, introduces pets and pet owners to this ancient Japanese technique, which promotes relaxation and healing.

Reiki uses 12 basic hand positions and the setting of intentions to channel energy in the universe to the recipient – man or beast. It involves a light placement of the hands, not a massage-like workout.

“Today, everyone is under stress, including our pets,” Czemmel said.

“Bringing them relaxation can reduce all kinds of emotional and physical ailments and increase the bond between pet and guardian. Reiki doesn’t take the place of conventional medicine, it complements it.”

After leg surgery in May, Nestlé recovered faster and without pain medication because of daily Reiki energy healing, Czemmel said.

Reiki’s calming effect also helped her chocolate Labrador retriever, Henry, tolerate ear exams and cleaning. And through Reiki, Czemmel formed stronger bonds with her shy cats, former strays, who now “jump up on my lap when I start doing Reiki on them,” she said.