21/12/2020
Winston visited on Saturday for a relaxation session. He’s been having troubles with his back legs and spine, and is seeing a rehabilitation vet. He’s started getting pain reactive with the vet, and also growling and barking at strangers. Winston’s mum wanted him to have a positive experience with a stranger touching him.
I communicated with Winston before the session, and explained what I’d be doing. He told me he doesn’t like people touching him anymore; he doesn’t trust their intentions and it makes the pain worse. We agreed that he would be completely in control of today’s work, and he could move away from me at any time, he would not be forced to do anything.
After a good sniff around my house, Winston willingly entered the treatment room. I used my calming spritz in the room to help relax him. He began choosing to come towards me for pats. I started giving him a light rub down with essential oils that are helpful for inflammation. He showed no sign of pain and often snuggled back up against me.
The rest of the session was a reiki treatment – some hands on and some from a distance. Winston self-regulated what it was he needed. He was very chilled by the end of it. And his mum was happy as I was the first stranger he hadn’t barked at in a long time!