Anyone who offers Reiki to animals knows that it can make a significant difference, mentally, emotionally and physically. Animals regularly show that they appreciate this gentle complementary therapy, often pushing their sore body areas into a practitioner’s hands. Most find it relaxing and clearly enjoy it too. Feedback from animals’ care-givers additionally support the beneficial effects that this holistic technique can offer. However, very little research has been done to provide scientific evidence which the veterinary profession largely demands in order to support it. We are not even aware of a collation of research studies on this subject area hence the need for action.

Our Animal Reiki Co-ordinator, Sue Malcolm is keen to instigate some research and having recently started jogging, she has committed to challenge herself to do a sponsored 10k race in October to start fundraising for this vital work. .....Go Sue! Other runners are very welcome to join her at the Sheffield City 10k - Rother Valley Country Park.

Many of our members offer Reiki to animals with wonderful results. Sue and her team, go weekly to give voluntary Reiki to animals in rescue centres – animals that have been abused or abandoned, and that in some cases are ill, injured or recovering from surgery. Countless animals have loved their Reiki and the rescue staff have been surprised how much difference this gentle therapy has made. Reiki is given in support of, and never in place of, any required veterinary treatment, and many-a-time when newly rescued and frightened animals have found themselves in unfamiliar surroundings with no-one they knew, Reiki has helped them to relax and feel safe. But it isn’t just for rescue animals. All animals can benefit and the UK Reiki Federation is working with all of the other Reiki Council organisation members to create a new qualification and certification process that will enable Reiki Practitioners for Animals to be professionally recognised.

Much research has been done to show the benefits of Reiki for people – for relaxation, pain reduction, recovery and for improvements to individuals with various health conditions and emotional issues. Reiki is supported by the General Medical Council and anyone can ask their GP for referral to a Reiki Practitioner. However we are a long way behind this for animal care and robust scientific evidence is necessary to move forward in gaining greater veterinary support. It would be lovely for many more animals to be offered the opportunity of Reiki to support their healthcare in the future.

The UK Reiki Federation is a not-for profit organisation that relies entirely on contributions and membership, and our limited funding restricts the work we can do. If we can raise an amount above this target, it will also go exclusively for this purpose and allow us to do more.