A form of vibrational medicine, crystal therapy works on the principle of entrainment. The principle states that entrainment is the tendency for two vibrating bodies to lock into synchronization so they vibrate in harmony. All crystals have a measureable and stable dominant vibrational rate as do all living beings. However, the latter are subject to environmental factors such as bacteria, stress, diet, viruses and other negative influences. Therefore, they operate at the lesser vibrational rate and not at peak efficiency. As a result, illness and disease can take hold of most living beings, including pets.

Choosing the proper crystal or crystals can entrain an unhealthy body back up to harmony. A body in harmony can then begin the healing process. Crystal therapy can be used for humans as well as for beloved pets. Crystals work on any animal as well as in any environment. The energies of the crystals are consistent and gentle. On occasion, a pet may even choose the crystals they wish to work with.

Crystals can help with many situations including:
• Chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, Cushing’s disease, cancer and Addison’s disease
• Joint problems stemming from arthritis in the spine, knees and hips
• Convalescing from injury or surgery
• Grieving
• Behavioral problems
• Adjusting to new situations, whether it involves a loss or addition, such as a new home, spouse, baby, other pets, job or job hours
• Preparing to cross over
• Preventive wellness care

There are many ways to use the therapeutic properties of crystals. Place larger clusters around the home near their bedding, on the outside of cages and aquariums or in the corners of stalls. Attach crystal charms to or wrap crystals around their collars. Consider having a crystal necklace made for your pet. Encircle your pet with small clusters or polished crystals. Put polished stones in a drawstring bag and place the stones and bag under their bedding, attached to a cage, or anywhere above where they sleep such as a shelf. Sew into halters, bedding, pillows, sweaters or other articles of pet clothing. Whenever possible, locate a crystal therapist who makes house calls because pets respond better in their own environment.

There are some safety considerations when using crystals. They may pose a choking risk if the pet were to swallow one. Many crystals contain heavy metals and the swallowed stone would also be poisonous. Placing crystals in an aquarium may also leach heavy metals into the water; make sure this does not become drinking water. Crystals will work from a short distance, so it is not necessary for them to be on the pet or within their reach. If you decide on crystal necklaces, make sure they are made from elastic for smaller animals and thin wire for larger. This is because if the collar becomes caught on something, you want it to break.

Crystals are living energies from the earth and should be treated with care and respect. Be careful when you store them, as many are fragile. Crystals like to sit on windowsills, but brightly colored ones may fade in direct sunlight. Moonlight, especially a full moon, is safe for all as the moon’s energies are gentler.  Most crystals can be cleansed under running water, but those with a Mohs-scale hardness of less than five may break or dissolve. The Mohs scale of mineral hardness is rated from one to 10 on the ability of one mineral to scratch another mineral. Softer stones may be cleansed with sage or Palo Santo.

By adding crystal therapy as a form of healing for your pet, you can help them heal and thrive physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Owner and stylist of Pawsitively Pretty Mobile Grooming Salon in Danbury, Mary Oquendo ACM, RM, is one of only 13 Certified Master Pet Tech Instructors worldwide. She is a Reiki master and certified crystal therapist. For more information, visit MaryOquendo.org.