The Healing Touch of Animals

My relationship with Reiki started long before I even knew the word "Reiki". My first "teacher" was my beloved cocker spaniel named Prince. I was convinced he could read my mind which I later learned he was actually reading my energy. Prince was my constant companion, my playmate, my friend, as well as my teacher. He had a way of making me smile even in my darkest moments...you see I had what most would call a nightmare for a childhood. When I was down, he would nudge me with his muzzle in an attempt to get me to pet him. While petting him, I would find myself starting to feel better, a feeling of love and calmness would come over me, he made the rest of my day bearable. As I pet him, his body would become incredibly warm as would my hands. After 13 years, Prince passed, yet he remains a very active part of my life to this day.
Throughout my life animals have played a very important role, I have been fortunate enough to be in a position to help them. I have bottled raised kittens, cows, and squirrels. I rescued dogs who were to be killed at the shelter and worked with them until they were adoptable.I have even raised young birds who had fallen out of their nest. I have been told how special and wonderful I am to help animals and the animals are so lucky to have someone like me...my response has always been "I am the lucky one, every animal who has been in my life has always given me way more than I have given them".
Research has proven that petting an animal can actually lower a person's blood pressure. In addition research also shows owing a pet can help you live longer. Many VA Hospitals are using animals to treat PTSD. I can't help but find it kinda ironic that something my beloved dog, Prince, taught me as a child is now being proven by today's traditional Medical Community.