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PetAbility PodcastAuthor: PetAbility
This is a must-hear podcast for pet owners wanting access to the latest in pet quality of life and longevity. Whether your pet has fur, feathers, scales or shells, Cathy and Chris believe in treating your pet as a whole, both mind and body. Continuing a collaboration that began in 2003, Cathy and Chris share the gift of gab as well as their network in the pet rehab community. Using their vast expertise as Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioners (CCRPs), Cathy Symons CVT, CCRP, and Chris Cranston MPT, CCRP, offer relevant information and provocative interviews on their podcast, PetAbility. With an emphasis on mobility and independence, their show is about improving function, restoring confidence, alleviating fear, providing mental stimulation, and easing pain to help your pets live their best lives. Read on for more information about Cathy and ChrisCathy Symons is the author of Blind Devotion: Enhancing the Lives of Blind and Visually Impaired Dogs. She was inspired to write this book after her first pug, Booda, lost his sight at the age of seven. Several years later, Cathy adopted a blind pug named Digger and wrote a childrens book, Watching Out for Digger, which she uses as a teaching tool for young children to learn about living with a disabled dog.After fifteen years of practice as a veterinary technician, Cathy went on to study canine rehabilitation at the University of Tennessee. In 2003, Cathy was one of the first thirty-six people in the world to become a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner. Shortly thereafter, Cathy was instrumental in establishing one of the foremost veterinary rehabilitation centers in the United States, the Sterling Impression Animal Rehabilitation Center of New England. She continues to follow the latest options in pet rehabilitation, including digital thermal imaging and laser therapy, and is currently working on her third book, Senior Dogs: Maintaining Mobility and Independence.Cathy resides in the New England area Language: en-us Genres: Education, Kids & Family, Pets & Animals Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Reiki for Animals: Exploring Energy for Healing with Samantha Hankey, CVT, CSAMP, RM
Episode 11
Tuesday, 25 August, 2026
Can Reiki help our animals relax, heal, and deepen the connection we share with them? In this episode of the PetAbility Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of Reiki for animals with returning guest Samantha Hankey, CVT, CSAMP, RM.Sam joined us previously to talk about therapeutic massage for animals, and this time she's back to introduce us to another gentle, complementary approach to animal wellness: Reiki. As a certified Veterinary Nurse, Small Animal Massage Practitioner, and Reiki Master, Sam brings a unique perspective that blends her background in veterinary medicine with her training in holistic and energetic practices.What Is Reiki—and How Does It Work With Animals?Reiki is a form of energy healing often described as working with the energy that flows through and around all living things. One of the things that makes Reiki particularly interesting for animals is that it can be offered without physical touch, allowing animals to participate in a way that feels comfortable to them.During our conversation, Sam helps us better understand what a Reiki session may look like, how animals can respond, and why respecting an animal's individual preferences and boundaries is such an important part of the process.In This Episode, We Discuss:What Reiki is and how Sam explains it to a pet parent or someone who has never experienced itThe different ways animals may respond during a Reiki sessionWhy animals don't necessarily need to be touched to receive ReikiHow Reiki may support relaxation, emotional well-being, and a sense of calmThe importance of allowing animals to choose how—and whether—they participateReiki as a valuable complementary practice alongside conventional veterinary care The connection between our own emotions and the animals who share our livesUsing Reiki to create comfort and connection during difficult transitions and end-of-life careCommon misconceptions about Reiki What pet parents should consider when looking for a Reiki practitionerIf you are curious about how energy work might impact and improve your pet's life physically and emotionally, tune in to learn more about how to support your four-legged companion's overall well-being. If you think this may be for you, you may even want to learn how to perform Reiki with your own pet in the comfort of your home.About Our GuestSamantha Hankey is a certified Veterinary Nurse with experience in alternative veterinary medicine. She is a certified Small Animal Massage Practitioner and Reiki Master and has additional training in acupressure, Tui Na, and craniosacral work for animals. Sam combines her veterinary background with holistic approaches to support the well-being of animals and the people who love them.You may find out more about Sam, her services, and schedule an appointment on her website, Healing With Sam or on Instagram @healingwith_samDisclaimerVitalVet.org, a platform for all things related to pet rehab - product information, education, and resources abound! MedcoVet (show sponsor) Luma - advanced red-light therapy therapy that puts healing in the hands of the pet owner in the comfort of home! Use Promo Code PETPOD22 to receive discounts from our affiliates!Jope - science-backed supplements Ruff Ramp - a safe alternative to stairs Optimum Pet Vitality - education/coursework Dr. Buzby’s -Toe Grips to prevent slipping, Encore Mobility joint supplement, and Brain Boost cognitive supplement. Using this link donates 20% to PetAbility Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for anybody working with catsHedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowni...













