Precious Paws Animal Rescue, like any nonprofit seeking to raise funds for its cause, has proved it’s willing to go outside the box and go with a healthy “alternative.”
The Franklin-based rescue will hold Reiki in the Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Two Mile Run County Park. The event is free of charge.
According to the Oxford dictionary, Reiki is defined as “a healing technique based on the principle that the therapist can channel energy into the patient by means of touch, to activate the natural healing processes of the patient’s body and restore physical and emotional well-being.”
Reiki is derived from the Japanese words “rei” meaning universal, and “ki” meaning life energy. It is used to promote relaxation, and reduction of stress and anxiety.
Attendees will meet with one of four Reiki masters at the Lakeside Pavilion next to Crosby Beach, where they will receive the alternative option to better health on a first-come, first-serve basis — and pets are welcome. Reiki masters on hand will be Melanie Krneta, Katrina Elder, Cherie Finland and Bob Paddock.
Precious Paws President Theresa Weldon said the event was inspired by the work of Reiki masters who visited the rescue’s clinic to work with the animals, as the technique isn’t only for people.
“We have found that animals that come into the shelter and vet clinic tend to respond really well to Reiki,” Weldon said. “Reiki makes them calm to work with and calms them in the rescue environment. We wanted to offer this to all our supporters and their pets.”
“I’ve worked with Precious Paws before the COVID-19 pandemic, and this is my first time working with them since the restrictions were lifted,” she said. “I love that we’ll be out in the fresh air, and I’m hoping this time is even better than the last” Reiki in the Park before the pandemic in Clarion County. “I love the energy that the water brings.”
Elder is excited to “bring awareness as to what Reiki can do for you. One of my favorite parts of Reiki is switching off the fight-or-flight switch, which allows true healing to happen.”
Reiki sessions that were offered by Elder for Precious Paws’ PetFest in Franklin’s Bandstand Park last week were a success, raising more than $400 for Precious Paws, according to Weldon.
Luna Gilligan, of Oil City, said her dog, Tolumne, benefited from a Reiki session at PetFest.
“Tolumne seemed very relaxed when we left the booth. Once we got home, she slept peacefully the rest of the day.” said Gilligan, who plans to attend Reiki in the Park for herself.
Although there will be no charge at Reiki in the Park, Precious Paws will accept donations of laundry detergent, pet food, paper towels, cat litter, bleach and other cleaning supplies. The rescue also will accept a monetary donation.
Drop-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged and can be made by calling (814) 671-9827.
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