MASSAGE AND REIKI FOR PETS
Prior to becoming a professional pet sitter, I worked full-time as a massage therapist at Bodywise Therapeutic Massage (www.bodywisea2.com) in Ann Arbor. I graduated from the Ann Arbor Institute of Massage Therapy in February 1998 and began working at Bodywise in March 1998. I was nationally certified as a massage therapist (NCTMB), and received my Reiki I attunement in November 1998 and my Reiki II attunement in February 1999. The course of study at AAIMT emphasized clinical, “problem-solving” massage, and included training in myofascial release and neuromuscular (“trigger point”) therapy. This was the focus of my work at Bodywise as well. I have also taken additional coursework in animal massage and T-Touch.
Tight muscles, scar tissue, and adhesions feel much the same, whether the skin covering them has fur or not. Done well, massage decreases stress, increases blood flow, loosens tight muscles, and feels very relaxing. It also increases mobility and range of motion. This can be especially beneficial for animal athletes (such as dogs who participate in agility, flyball, and lure coursing), elderly pets, or pets recovering from injury, trauma, or surgery.
Reiki (pronounced “ray-kee”) is a type of energy work which involves very gentle laying on of hands and energy flow. It is particularly beneficial for emotional or highly stressful situations, and can also provide pain relief. I have found it to especially helpful for pets with arthritis, as well as pets who preparing to cross “the rainbow bridge.”
RATES
$1/minute + $5 travel fee
In my experience, it is unusual for animal to want more than 30 minutes of bodywork – they are usually very clear in indicating they’ve had enough. Some animals may not want to receive any bodywork – they’re also very clear about communicating that. If I’ve come to your home and your pet chooses not to have me work on them, I charge only the $5 travel fee.
