I give thanks to Mary Brennan, D.V.M. for providing me with much of this information in her book, The Natural Dog.

As a dog owner, I believe that there is a great advantage to holistic veterinary care. Holistic veterinarians combine the knowledge and sklls of "regular" allopathic medicine with the holistic approach. This gives a broader range of healing possibilities for our four - legged friends.

It is this broader range of treatments that makes this field of medicine so interesting and important.

Holistic medicine uses these treatments simultaneously, with allopathic treatments, or alone. The whole idea of holistic medicine is to treat the root of the problem and not just the symptoms. Allopathic medicine tends to treat the symptoms and our bodies end up getting overdosed with drugs. Holistic treatments usually cure the problem being looked at, but a slower rate than allopathic medicine.

Prevention is key factor in holistic medicine

• Maintain a healthy diet for your dog
• Give her a lot of exercise
• Keep her mentally and emotionally strong
• Give her a lot of attention
• Be able to calm her down when need be - try massage therapy
• See your vet annually
• Allow her animal rights! Remember that she is not human or a toy for that matter. Allowing freedom for your dog, as long as she does not hurt someone, is important to maintain animal sanity

Broad overview of some holistic treatments:

Acupuncture

Aromatherapy

Bach Flower Remedies

Herbs

Homeopathy

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