Holistic Pet Care

Holistic veterinary care, like that of human care, looks at the "whole", not isolated parts. It focuses on resolving the cause & the issue, not assuaging signs. Overall improvement of the quality of life & living is the aim. In addition to western approaches, such as antibiotics (drugs) & surgical procedure, holistic approaches include acupuncture, homeopathy, chiropractic, herbology, Bach flower treatments, & nutritional therapy.

A major key in holistic veterinary care is that the doctor looks at the whole picture. Most will take a detailed background of the animal--medical being a part. They will look at the environment the animal came from & where it is now, any recurrent issues & their pattern, & the pet's relationship with its owner (& relatives members). From this information the veterinarian, with the owner, can work to pinpoint causes & create appropriate & feasible treatment designs. The plan may include several approaches & phases with optimum health as its aim. An example may be that the pet receives an antibiotic for a extreme infection, acupuncture for improved healing & well-being, & an improved diet.

Holistic veterinary care in the Western world is still in its infancy. The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, based in Maryland, was founded in 1981. & more recently in 1988, acupuncture was recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Both veterinary acupuncturist & chiropractors have formed their own organizations to help educate & generate awareness of the choices obtainable in veterinary care. Homeopathic veterinarians participate in the National Middle for Homeopathy.