World Animal Reiki Day

World Animal Reiki Day is observed annually on February 5. This day focuses on the healing benefits of Reiki meditation for animals, particularly those in shelters and sanctuaries. It promotes a specialized approach called the Let Animals Lead method, which emphasizes a respectful, silent presence that allows animals to choose if and how they want to engage with the practitioner’s energy.

History of World Animal Reiki Day

This observance was founded in 2015 by Kathleen Prasad, the president of the Shelter Animal Reiki Association (SARA). Prasad established the day to raise global awareness about how meditation-based healing can reduce stress and anxiety in rescued animals. The date, February 5, was chosen to honor the birthday of her first animal Reiki teacher, an Australian Shepherd mix named Dakota. Dakota was a rescue dog who inspired Prasad to develop a more passive, animal-centric approach to energy work. ¹

Since its inception, the day has grown into an international event supported by practitioners, shelters, and veterinary clinics. It has transitioned from a small grassroots initiative into a movement that advocates for a shift in how humans interact with the animal kingdom. The holiday serves as a tribute to Dakota’s sixteen-year legacy, reminding the public that animals are not just recipients of care but are active spiritual teachers who can guide humans toward a state of inner peace and mindfulness.

Why is World Animal Reiki Day important?

The significance of this day lies in its focus on animal agency and emotional well-being. Unlike traditional Reiki, which may involve physical touch, Animal Reiki on this day emphasizes “holding space” and seeing animals as whole and perfect rather than “fixing” them. This distinction is crucial for traumatized or fearful shelter animals who may be wary of human contact. By practicing this method, caregivers help foster a sense of safety and trust, which can improve the animal’s behavior and increase their chances of successful adoption.

Furthermore, the holiday highlights the therapeutic benefits for the human practitioners involved. Engaging in quiet meditation with animals has been shown to lower the heart rates and cortisol levels of both the person and the animal. It encourages a deeper heart-to-heart connection that transcends verbal communication. By dedicating a day to this practice, the global community recognizes that the health of animals is intrinsically linked to the spiritual and emotional health of their human companions.

• The day advocates for the “Let Animals Lead” philosophy in energy healing.
• it brings attention to the emotional needs of animals living in shelters.
• The holiday celebrates the birthday of Dakota, a rescued Australian Shepherd mix.
• It promotes the use of meditation to create a calm environment for pets.
• Practitioners use the day to honor animals as our spiritual healers and teachers.

How to Observe World Animal Reiki Day

Observing this day is best done through quiet, intentional moments of connection. Many people choose to sit in silent meditation near their pets or at a local animal sanctuary, without any expectation of physical touch. The goal is to create a “healing bubble” of peace that the animal can enter at their own will. For those without pets, lighting a candle and dedicating a few minutes of thought to the well-being of all creatures is a common way to participate in the global energy of the day.

Education is also a major part of the observance. Many practitioners host online webinars or local workshops to teach the basics of the SARA method. Social media plays a significant role, with fans sharing stories of how Reiki helped their rescued animals overcome past traumas. Many shelters use the day as a fundraising opportunity, inviting the public to donate food or supplies in exchange for learning about the calming effects of meditation on the animals in their care.

• Set aside 15 minutes to meditate in silence while near your animal companion.
• Light a candle to honor a past pet that served as your teacher.
• Donate to the Shelter Animal Reiki Association to support their global mission.
• Share a photo of your pet along with a message of gratitude on social media.
• Practice “seeing with the heart” by focusing on an animal’s inner light.

World Animal Reiki Day Dates Table

1. https://shelteranimalreikiassociation.org/about/world-animal-reiki-day/[↩]