There is a growing interest in holistic medicine for our dogs and cats, just as there is in the human world. There are vets who specialize in acupuncture, physiotherapy, chiropractic treatments, homeopathic and herbal medicine that can have a significant impact on your pet's health. For example acupuncture can often be used in place of permanent drug therapy for dogs with limited mobility from arthritis.
What is holistic medicine?
Holistic (or Integrative) Veterinary Medicine is the examination and diagnosis of an animal, considering all aspects of the animal's life and employing all of the practitioner's senses, as well as the combination of conventional and alternative (or complementary) modalities of treatment. When a holistic veterinarian sees a pet, besides giving it a comprehensive physical examination, he/she wants to find out all about its behaviors, distant medical and dietary history, and its environment including diet, emotional stresses, and other factors.
Holistic medicine, by its very nature, is humane to the core. The wholeness of its scope will set up a lifestyle for the animal that is most appropriate. The techniques used in holistic medicine are gentle, minimally invasive, and incorporate patient well-being and stress reduction. Holistic thinking is centered on love, empathy and respect.
Where can I find a holistic vet?
Check out the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, which has a search for a holistic vet near you as well as some descriptions of the different types of treatments.
