Supporting Our Senior Dog Through Pain — Reiki for Animals

This is Bèla, our 10-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog. She’s been the most loyal and loving companion we could ask for — and a true healer of humans. She has this amazing ability to find folks to lean on, and she stays there until she’s sure you’re comforted. Her soulful eyes are otherworldly, and I know that she wants to be of comfort and support to everyone she meets.

Yesterday, after a lovely walk and dog park run, Bèla took a misstep while moving in our dog hammock. We didn’t think much of it at the time, but later she began wincing and crying out in pain. My husband, Kyle, took her to the vet. Our doctor didn’t find anything at all, and for whatever reason, she did not wince during the appointment. It was an overall relief, but Bèla still shows signs of discomfort.

Even when a vet exam comes back “normal,” it’s important to remember that pain can still exist, especially in senior dogs. Signs of pain in older dogs can be subtle:

• Arching the back when standing or lying down

• Trembling or shaking limbs

• Sudden vocalizations or yelps

• Stiffness or hesitation moving

• Changes in appetite or weight

Observing your dog closely and taking note of these behaviors can help your veterinarian better understand what’s happening.

For Bèla, we are focused on keeping her comfortable, rested, and monitored closely. One thing I can offer her is Animal Reiki, and fortunately, I was able to provide gentle energy healing while Bèla rested.

This picture of her shows a “Reiki nap” — she’s resting comfortably while the energy works, and I feel grateful to be able to support her in this way. It’s such a relief to see her at rest rather than feeling helpless, listening to her cries.

If you have an animal companion who could benefit from gentle support, I offer 30- and 60-minute sessions, either in person in Kalamazoo, MI or via distance or real-time virtual Reiki. Reiki helps calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and support overall wellbeing — and it is always complementary to any veterinary care.

Learn more: here.

My Senior dog Bela snoozes in a Reiki nap while recovering from pain.

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