About Nikki
The Heart Behind Sacred PawsAnimals have been part of Nikki’s life for as long as she can remember. Sacred Paws grew from that lifelong connection: a desire to give animals a calm, respectful space and to support the people who love them with equal compassion.
Sacred Paws
Meet Nikki
A Lifelong Connection With Animals
They gave her some of her happiest memories and taught her lessons that words never could.
Whether walking, playing or sharing a quiet cuddle, being with animals has always brought Nikki a deep sense of calm and connection. She believes animals are constantly communicating through movement, expression, energy and behaviour. They may not use our words, but they show us what they need when we are patient enough to notice.
An Unexpected Career Journey
Nikki’s working life has taken her through very different worlds—from leading tours in South East Asia to becoming a book editor. Yet the love of animals remained at the centre of who she was, even before it became part of her professional path.
That varied background now shapes the way she works: the awareness needed to read a room, the organisation required to prepare carefully, the listening skills to honour each family’s story and the humility to understand that no two animals are the same.
The Journey to Reiki
In 2022, Nikki’s spiritual journey began to deepen as she explored meditation, breathwork and energy work. As she learned more about Reiki, she felt a strong calling to bring it together with her lifelong love of animals. That journey led to the creation of Sacred Paws.
Qualified, Compassionate and Committed
Nikki is a qualified Animal Reiki practitioner who has completed both her First Degree and Second Degree Reiki training.
Her studies have given her a strong foundation in Reiki principles, energy work and the importance of approaching every session with calm, focus and respect.
She is also a member of the UK Reiki Federation, reflecting her commitment to professional standards, continued learning and responsible practice.
Nikki combines this training with her lifelong connection with animals and her understanding of animal communication, body language and individual boundaries.
Every Sacred Paws session is offered with patience and compassion, allowing each animal to participate in the way that feels most comfortable for them.
Why the Name Sacred Paws?
Sacred
“Sacred” reflects the quiet, focused space Nikki aims to create during every Reiki session. Before beginning, she takes time to ground herself and become calm and present. During the session, her attention is devoted to the animal and to maintaining a peaceful, respectful atmosphere.
Paws—and a pause
“Paws” also carries the idea of a pause: a chance for an animal to step away from being alert, protective or “on duty”. It is an opportunity to relax, receive at their own pace and simply be.
Every Animal Guides the Session
Nikki believes every animal is unique and should be allowed to shape the experience. Her role is to offer a calm, reassuring presence—not to force contact, interpret every movement or claim certainty about what an animal feels.
Having also studied animal communication, she values the conversations that happen without words. At the same time, Sacred Paws remains grounded in humility. Nikki does not claim to have all the answers; she trusts the process, observes carefully and lets each animal engage in the way that feels right for them.
The Session That Stayed With Nikki
One of Nikki’s earliest Animal Reiki sessions was with an energetic four-month-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier called Doofus. Within minutes, the puppy chose to settle and before long had drifted peacefully to sleep. For Nikki, it was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when an animal feels safe, unpressured and supported.
Safety
Physical safety, appropriate boundaries and veterinary care always come before spiritual practice.
Choice
Animals are never expected to stay still, accept touch or respond in a particular way.
Compassion
Every pet is a cherished family member. Guardians, memories and grief are treated with gentleness and discretion.
Humility
Sacred Paws does not promise cures, claim to know everything an animal is thinking or present spiritual work as medical treatment.
A Trust Nikki Never Takes for Granted
When someone invites Nikki into their animal’s life, she never takes that trust for granted. Her aim is to care for each companion with the same kindness, patience and respect their family gives them every day.
Above all, Nikki wants every animal she meets to feel safe, understood and loved. That is the heart of Sacred Paws, and she would be honoured to share that journey with you and your companion.