Kansas City, MO, August 13, 2025
Tending Pets KC
Tending Pets KC is a Kansas City-based pet wellness business founded by Joann Schermerhorn, a certified sound bath practitioner dedicated to enhancing animal well-being through innovative sound therapies. The business originated after Schermerhorn successfully demonstrated the calming effects of sound baths on her own pets and her initial clients’ animals. Inspired by positive reactions, including those of television personality Heidi Gardner’s cats, Schermerhorn launched Tending Pets KC to offer tailored sound bath experiences for pets suffering from anxiety and stress. In collaboration with local establishments like Whiskers Cat Cafe and Coffeehouse, the business provides customized sessions utilizing instruments such as singing bowls, chimes, and steel tongue drums, making a unique contribution to pet care and community wellness in Kansas City.
News Summary
Kansas City residents can now treat their pets to unique sound bath experiences led by certified practitioner Joann Schermerhorn. Utilizing soothing sounds from singing bowls, chimes, and more, Schermerhorn saw positive results with her own pets and has since launched Tending Pets KC to offer these therapeutic sessions. Partnering with Whiskers Cat Cafe, she aims to provide relief for pets suffering from anxiety and promote bonding between pets and their owners, showcasing the benefits of sound therapy in the Kansas City area.
Kansas City Pets Enjoy Unique Sound Bath Experiences Thanks to Joann Schermerhorn
Kansas City residents can now provide their pets with unique sound bath experiences thanks to Joann Schermerhorn, a newly certified sound bath practitioner. Schermerhorn, practicing her skills while house-sitting, has discovered a way to help pets relax and bond through the soothing sounds of singing bowls, chimes, and a steel tongue drum.
During her first attempt at a sound bath, two older cats—a blind cat and another suffering from illness—along with a playful two-year-old cat, were drawn to the soothing sounds emanating from the practice room. Schermerhorn captured videos of the cats thoroughly enjoying the session and shared them with Heidi Gardner, a Kansas City resident and star on “Saturday Night Live.” Excited by the positive reactions of the cats, Gardner posted the videos on her Instagram for her 370,000 followers, sparking interest in this innovative concept.
Initially unaware of the potential for offering sound baths for pets, Schermerhorn was inspired by Gardner’s enthusiasm and has since been providing weekly sound baths for Gardner’s four cats for nearly two months. These sessions have fostered unexpected bonding moments among the cats, who typically do not snuggle. With the success of these sessions, Schermerhorn has officially launched her business, Tending Pets KC, to extend her sound bath services to other pet owners in the Kansas City area.
Sound Bath Experience for Pets
Schermerhorn carefully adjusts her sound bath techniques for pets to make them quieter, particularly focusing on sound frequencies that cater to animal senses. Cats can hear up to 85 hertz, while humans only hear up to 20 hertz. She meticulously monitors the pets’ reactions during the sessions to ensure comfort and engagement. The experience is tailored to individual pets, incorporating various instruments to suit each animal’s preferences.
The positive benefits of sound baths became apparent to Schermerhorn during her time as a pet sitter, where she observed significant calming effects on her own pets during sound bath sessions. She famously calmed a nervous Goldendoodle during a thunderstorm with sound techniques. Eager to help more animals, Schermerhorn reached out to local animal shelters to offer complimentary sound baths but received no responses, leading her to explore partnerships with local businesses.
Community Engagement
In a bid to provide sound baths for both pets and their owners, Schermerhorn has teamed up with Whiskers Cat Cafe and Coffeehouse. Together, they offer sessions every other Monday, with a solid booking trend for upcoming months in August and September. Sessions typically last one hour and begin with informal introductions to help the animals feel comfortable before the bathing process begins.
Clientele and Benefits
Schermerhorn’s clientele often consists of pet owners seeking relief for their animals dealing with anxiety or distressful situations. One specific case involved a client who sought sound baths for her 16-year-old cat to alleviate feelings of loneliness following the passing of another cat. Schermerhorn has observed diverse reactions among various animals during her sessions, from playfulness to total relaxation, demonstrating the tailored efficacy of her methods.
Moreover, the sound baths have been especially beneficial for foster kittens, who typically face anxiety in uncertain environments. Schermerhorn aims to transition into working with animals on a full-time basis and has a background in the wellness industry that complements her new venture.
Conclusion
The innovative approach of sound bathing for pets in Kansas City has opened new avenues for supporting animals’ well-being while enhancing the bond between pets and their owners. Schermerhorn’s Tending Pets KC has made a unique mark in the community, promising ongoing benefits for pet owners and their beloved companions.
FAQs
What is a sound bath for pets?
A sound bath for pets is a calming experience that utilizes instruments like singing bowls, chimes, and steel tongue drums to create soothing audio environments aimed at reducing stress and fostering relaxation in animals.
How does sound bathing work for animals?
Sound bathing for animals involves creating sound frequencies that animals can hear and respond to, providing comfort and helping to ease anxiety or discomfort.
Who is Joann Schermerhorn?
Joann Schermerhorn is a newly certified sound bath practitioner in Kansas City who has created a business, Tending Pets KC, to provide tailored sound bath experiences for pets.
What types of pets benefit from sound baths?
Cats, dogs, and other animals can benefit from sound baths, especially those experiencing anxiety, restlessness, or adjustments to new environments.
Key Features of Sound Baths for Pets
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Instruments Used | Singing bowls, chimes, steel tongue drums |
| Duration | Typically lasts one hour |
| Target Audience | Pets suffering from anxiety, restlessness, or other issues |
| Unique Approach | Customizing sound frequencies based on animals’ hearing ranges |
| Business Partnership | Collaboration with Whiskers Cat Cafe and Coffeehouse |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Kansas City News Article
- Wikipedia: Pet Therapy
- In Kansas City – Metaphysical Experiences
- Google Search: Sound Baths for Pets
- Kansas Reflector Article
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
