You may have heard of holistic medicine for people, but did you know that you can seek holistic pet care, too? When conventional veterinary care either is not meeting your needs or does not match your lifestyle, holistic care could be the solution. The Furry Godmother is putting holistic pet care under the microscope to give you the scoop on taking care of your four-pawed friends the natural way.
The holistic approach is all about perspective and preventative care. Practitioners seek total wellness for your pet, examining how every facet of your pet’s life impacts his health and seeking balance between mind and body. In addition to diagnosing and treating health concerns, holistic medicine encompasses nutrition, exercise and complementary therapies as well.
Complementary therapies such as herbal supplementation, massage and chiropractic care are utilized more than conventional medicine. For a pet with arthritis, a holistic vet might prescribe an herb with anti-inflammatory properties as well as regular massage therapy. The goal is to be minimally invasive and use as few prescription drugs as possible.
Some holistic vets also take a look at your pet’s habits and routines. Our pet sitters can attest that issues like difficulty housebreaking and other destructive behaviors are more common in anxious pets. By understanding how animals think and interact with their surroundings, a holistic vet can treat issues like anxiety and depression through changes in routine and rehabilitation.
When choosing a holistic vet, look for credentials that go beyond veterinary school. You should see certificates from groups like the Veterinary Botanical Medical Association, the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association and National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. A holistic vet should also be a member of at least one group dedicated to holistic care or pet nutrition.
Holistic care advocates recommend starting this approach as early in your pet’s life as possible. When it comes time for pet sitting or boarding, make sure you alert your sitters of any special supplements, nutritional needs or routine requirements your pet has. Consistency is important for your pet’s health.
The way a holistic vet sees it, a pet with a healthy, lively lifestyle is less likely to develop serious illnesses. This integrative approach may be a little different, but it could be a change that benefits both you and your furry best friend.
