I give weekly Reiki sessions to dogs in care at the London centre of The Dogs Trust, the UK’s leading animal rescue charity, whose ethos is never to destroy a healthy dog.

The photos are of Lacey lurcher aged 8 at her first Reiki session and after one month. Her emotional journey and the improvement in her physical condition whilst in care, are clearly visible. Because we keep a photographic record of the dogs over the course of their sessions for a variety of reasons, we are able to review progress in this way. She sought out human contact from the beginning as you can see from those big pleading eyes.

What a difference four weeks have made to Lacey, who is classified as nervous around people and with high anxiety levels. We focus on empowerment as the sessions progress. The dog is free to come and go from the mat and we try to make it fun as well as relaxing, so have toys on the mat.

February 17, 2015

March 17, 2015

I think the pictures show quite clearly her improved ability to respond to care givers, her alertness, relaxation and her head carriage show confidence and trust in us. The eye contact picture, far from being aggressive, was making a connection with us and moments before a big licky kiss. This is a dog who has really benefited from volunteer Reiki in the centre and will make a lovely companion.

Lucy Lofting Reiki Master