Understanding Holistic Pet Care

Sometimes holistic healthcare can come with a stigma. Many of us aren’t quite sure what it means. Some people are under the misconception that it involves not using a trusted veterinarian, but that’s not the case. This article will guide you through understanding holistic pet care, involves and how it can be used to treat your fur babies.

 

A Whole-Body Approach

Holistic pet care involves treating the whole animal. It takes into account nutrition, genetics, environmental factors, and medical history. A holistic approach centers on your animal as an individual, using integrative therapies and modalities that work to treat the whole picture, not one symptom. Holistic pet care looks at the healthiest way to treat your pet.

Nutrition

Nutrition is a huge factor in your fur baby’s health. The type of diet your pet is on will directly impact energy, skin conditions, and overall well-being. Adjustments in diet alone can sometimes fix many issues, like digestive distress or allergies. Your vet may prescribe a specific food formula to help with your pet’s health issues.

Massage

Dogs can benefit from massages, as it offers calming and healing effects. Massages can improve blood flow and oxygenation, which will reduce pain and increase the speed of recovery. Some experts also feel that massage strengthens your pet’s immune system and helps remove toxins.

Laser Therapy

Many vet offices have incorporated laser therapy as a means of relieving pain and improving function. The laser is non-invasive and only takes a few minutes for each session. The device feels warm and soothing to your pet, and improvement can be seen after only a few visits. Many veterinarians use this for pets with arthritis as it can relieve joint and back pain.

Supplements

Your pet may need prescription medications, but many veterinarians also recommend combining those with natural supplements. It is not used to replace conventional therapies your vet suggests but can be coupled with them to provide more relief. Discuss any new supplements with your trusted vet to be sure there are no contraindications.

Chiropractic Treatments

Chiropractors will manipulate the spine and other bones to relieve muscle, skeletal, and joint issues. Veterinary chiropractic therapy is gentle on your pet and doesn’t cause them any pain. It includes using low force to make some adjustments that relieve pain and improve agility. If you’re considering chiropractic treatments for your pet, always consult your vet first to see if it would be appropriate.

Sound

There is evidence that supports the soothing abilities of music to calm an anxious pup. Music affects the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Many shelters and animal clinics use music therapy for their dogs. You may need to play around to see if your pup prefers Beethoven, Metallica, or a country melody.

You Have Options

One of the best things about holistic pet care is that it gives you more options. We are learning there are numerous ways to treat pets, and this practice uses a combined approach to provide the best outcome for your fur baby. Many holistic practices could benefit your dog or cat, so talk to your vet about some natural possibilities that may be right for you and your pet.