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Coralville, IA 52241


Dog Boarding & Daycare in the Iowa City Area

Animal Reiki

Reiki (pronounced “ray-key”) is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing.  This gentle type of energy healing is gaining popularity among pet owners because it focuses on emotional balance, pain relief, and overall well-being.  Benefits of Reiki for animals include:

  • Reduced anxiety and stress
  • Relief from physical discomfort or pain
  • Improved relaxation or calmness
  • Emotional healing for pets dealing with grief, depression, or trauma
  • End-of-life support
  • Faster recovery from surgery or illness
  • Increased energy and vitality

Dogs are natural at sensing energy and often welcome a Reiki healing session. Therapeutic touch can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, lower stress hormone levels, and produce tangible healing and behavioral changes.  

Reiki is a complementary therapy and is never a replacement for veterinary care. 

Animal Reiki is offered on a limited, non-emergency basis at Just Dogs PlayCare.  To request an appointment, please complete the attached questionnaire and submit it to info@justdogsplaycare.com. 

$10 discount for recurring JDPC Dog Daycare customers
$20 discount for Dog U Members

Add $20+ for home visit, IC area

Reiki Practioner: Carol Besler-Snell, Second Degree Usui/Holy Fire III Reiki; Second Degree ICRT Animal Reiki.  Carol has received training and certification in both Animal Reiki and Human Reiki.  Her experience in dog behavior and communication has given her a deeper understanding of and respect for the distinctive energy system of animals.  She is grateful for the opportunity to assist animals in finding the healing they need.

What Happens During a Reiki Session?

A Reiki session typically occurs in a quiet setting, with a practitioner placing their hands lightly on or near the animal.  The animal is free to remain still, move around, and interact.  The practitioner pays close attention to the animal’s body language and behavior, noticing when subtle shifts of energy occur.

How Often Should My Pet Receive a Reiki Treatment?

Many people find that regular Reiki sessions are beneficial, helping enhance their pet’s physical, mental, and emotional resilience. The frequency of the sessions depends on the animal’s needs. Because the body – and life circumstances – are ever changing, pet parents may seek out Reiki at different times for different reasons, including:

• Occasional support: A session before or after a stressful situation, such as boarding, grooming, travel, moving, or other major routine changes.

• Short-term support: Weekly or biweekly sessions during a recovery period or other stressful transition time.

• Ongoing wellness: Monthly sessions to help pets quietly decompress and find emotional balance and a sense of safety.

Who Needs Reiki?

For animals as well as humans, past traumas as well as the pressures of everyday life can cause energy blockages and imbalances that can lead to emotional, physical, and behavioral issues.  Reiki can help restore the flow of energy throughout the body.  After the session, pet parents may notice their animal is more at ease, or even more affectionate.

Want to Learn More About Animal Reiki?

“What Is Animal Reiki? How Energy Healing Can Help Your Pet Feel Better,” Kevin Kinyon
https://www.petworks.com/articles/what-is-animal-reiki/

“Reiki for Animals: The Power of Peace to Heal,” Marc Bekoff Ph.D.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animal-emotions/201902/reiki-animals-the-power-peace-heal

“Reiki Healing for Dogs: Is It Possible?,” Caitlin Ultimo
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/reiki-healing-for-pets-is-it-possible/