Frequently Asked Questions

Distance Reiki works on the same principles as an in-person Reiki session. Reiki is traditionally understood as Universal Life Energy—it is not considered dependent on physical proximity in the way massage or other hands-on therapies are.

In fact, many pets seem especially comfortable receiving sessions from their own familiar environment. They can rest in their favorite spot, continue their normal routine, or simply choose how they’d like to participate without the excitement or stress that sometimes comes with meeting someone new.

Before your session, I’ll ask for a recent photo of your pet and a little information about what you’d like support with. During our scheduled session, I’ll focus on your pet just as I would if we were together in person. Afterward, you’ll receive a written report describing the session, any observations or impressions I received, and any general recommendations when appropriate.

Whether a session takes place across the room or across the country, my goal remains exactly the same: to offer compassionate energetic support while respecting your pet’s comfort, choices, and individual needs.

It isn’t so much that your pet has to know, it’s that your pet will know. You don’t have to tell your pet about the session, but it’s a necessary part of the session for me to offer your pet Reiki – your pet can accept this offer, or decline it. Your pet will know that we’re having a session, as I connect with them and seek their permission.

This might have you concerned about what happens if a pet declines, and whether this is common.

Don’t worry! If your pet does not want to have the scheduled Reiki session, we’ll try again. There are many reasons why a pet could be disinterested, just as you or I might not feel up to something new, or even familiar, that particular day or time. Sometimes, the pet will provide a clear impression of why they’re not feeling receptive to the session in that moment. Other times, the impression is less clear; they might not feel like sharing that either at the time. Most of the time, the way a pet “answers” gives good enough insight for how we can work together to ensure they’re in a more comfortable, calmer, receptive state for next time.

It isn’t very common for pets to decline Reiki. When this has happened, I have never received what you could call a “hard no.” It has been either a significant distraction they’re experiencing, or something much closer to “not right now.” We can figure this out together for a solution that will work best for your individual pet.

I do recommend telling your pet, though!

Reiki is highly respectful of animals. Your pet is honored as an equal partner, and this is reflected in the Code of Ethics. The very first point is Consent and Boundaries: always ask for the animal’s permission, and respect their decision to accept, modify, or refuse treatment.

Talking to your pet about the session shows them the same cooperative respect for their agency. It starts things off right and positions your pet and you as active participants. This can help animals feel more at ease and prepared for their session.

No, your pet might not understand the words, but you communicate in more ways than spoken language. Animals often amaze with how well they understand us, and with a beloved pet, their awareness of all the ways you communicate can feel like they do understand exactly what you said in words. Your relationship with your pet creates a strong bond between you, and by explaining what we’ll be doing, you’re almost certainly communicating in ways they are aware of. It might feel a little silly to talk to your pet, but that’s only because we’ve all been told, in so many ways, that it should feel silly! Just remember, you would want to inform any other family member, even if they were unable to speak with you in return, your pet is no different.

Wondering how pets respond to Reiki sessions?

In short…

Animals often respond in whatever way feels natural to them. Common responses: becoming sleepy, relaxing deeply, or napping exactly as they normally would. Some might continue to play and interact with their environment as usual, and others can show no outward signs at all. While relaxing in some way is the most common indicator I’ve seen, every pet is an individual, and there is no “correct” response.

You’re welcome to ask about nearly anything that’s important to you and your pet.

Many people ask about behavioral changes, relationships with family members or other pets, adjusting to life changes, fears, preferences, emotional well-being, or simply whether there’s anything their companion would like them to know.

You’re also welcome to request a general wellness session without any specific questions. Pets are typically eager to share, and the impressions I get can help to make a more complete picture of the very things you might want to ask about anyway.

If a question falls outside what I believe Animal Communication can responsibly address, I’ll let you know openly and honestly. Your pet’s safety and well-being are always paramount.

Please know that I cannot guarantee a precise answer to your question. Each animal is an individual, and they have the agency to share what and how they want. Animal Communication can be a helpful tool in understanding your pet better, but it’s important to recognize that it isn’t always quick, easy, and clear.

No.

Animal Communication is not a medical diagnostic tool, and I do not claim to know every thought in your pet’s mind.

Instead, Animal Communication is generally approached as receiving impressions, emotions, images, sensations, or symbolic information that may help provide insight into your pet’s experience. Those impressions should always be interpreted thoughtfully and within appropriate limits.

Any concerns involving illness, injury, pain, or changes in your pet’s health should always be evaluated by your veterinarian.

No.

Reiki is intended as a complementary wellness practice—not a replacement for veterinary medicine.

Many guardians choose Reiki alongside conventional veterinary care because they hope it may support relaxation, comfort, emotional well-being, or recovery. However, Reiki should never delay or replace appropriate medical diagnosis or treatment.

Coydog Wellness fully supports evidence-based veterinary care and collaborative care for every pet.

Absolutely, yes.

If anything during a session—or from the information you provide beforehand—suggests that your pet may benefit from veterinary evaluation, I’ll recommend contacting your veterinarian.

I believe Reiki and Animal Communication are most valuable when they work alongside, not instead of, professional veterinary care. Think of my services as supportive parts of a whole.

Your pet’s health and welfare always come first.

I’ll tell you.

I believe honesty is one of the most important parts of this work. If an impression feels unclear, symbolic, incomplete, or uncertain, I’ll say exactly that rather than presenting it as fact.

Sometimes impressions are immediately meaningful, while other times they may not make sense until later—or they may simply not fit at all.

I’ll always distinguish between observations I’m confident about and those I’m less certain of, so you can interpret your report with appropriate context.

After your session, you’ll receive a detailed written report describing the Reiki session, any observations or communication impressions I experienced, and any recommendations that may be helpful.

You’ll have time to read everything at your own pace, and you’re welcome to reach out afterward if you have questions or would like clarification.

Many guardians choose a single session, while others schedule occasional follow-up sessions during periods of transition, recovery, aging, or other significant life changes. There’s never any pressure to book additional sessions—my goal is simply to support you and your pet in whatever way is most helpful.

After a session, many guardians notice changes in their pets. The most common observance is that the pet is more relaxed, comfortable, or more themselves. How your pet will respond to Reiki or Animal Communication is as individual as they are, and there is no “right” or “wrong” expression (or lack thereof) from your pet. As with everything, if you have questions, concerns, or simply want to talk about what you’ve observed about your pet, I am always happy to hear from you!

That’s completely okay.

Many of my clients begin with healthy skepticism or simple curiosity. I don’t expect anyone to abandon critical thinking or accept extraordinary claims without reflection.

My goal isn’t to convince anyone of a particular belief system. Instead, I aim to provide a thoughtful, compassionate experience, communicate honestly about what I observe, respect the limits of this work, and always encourage appropriate veterinary care and professional behavior oversight.

Whether you view Animal Reiki and Communication as a spiritual practice, a mindfulness-based wellness experience, or simply an opportunity to spend intentional time focusing on your pet’s well-being, you’re welcome here.

Please know that Reiki is not a religion or religious practice. Reiki and Animal Communication are open to all, regardless of their religious affiliation.