An
Introduction to Holistic Pet Care
Treating Causes Not Just Symptoms
by Marian Brown
Pets continue to be popular in our society, yet the reasons
we have them is changing. No longer are our dogs, cats, and horses "working" for
their keep, they have become trusted companions and family members.
They enjoy the comforts of our homes, and in recent years the
benefits of improved health care and specifically holistic veterinary
care.
Holistic veterinary care, like that of human care, looks at
the "whole", not just isolated parts. It focuses on
resolving the cause and the problem, not just alleviating symptoms.
Overall improvement of the quality of life and living is the
goal. In addition to western approaches, such as antibiotics
(drugs) and surgery, holistic approaches include acupuncture,
homeopathy, chiropractic, herbology, Bach flower remedies, and
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 just a part. They will look at the
environment the animal came from and where it is now, any recurrent
problems and their pattern, and the pet's relationship with its
owner (and family members). From this information the veterinarian,
with the owner, can work to pinpoint causes and develop appropriate
and feasible treatment plans. The plan may include several approaches
and phases with optimum health as its goal. An example may be
that the pet receives an antibiotic for a severe infection, acupuncture
for improved healing and well-being, and 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 just founded in 1981. And more recently
in 1988, acupuncture was recognized by the American Veterinary
Medical Association. Both veterinary acupuncturist and chiropractors
have formed their own organizations to help educate and create
awareness of the alternatives available in veterinary care. Homeopathic
veterinarians participate in the National Center for Homeopathy.
Holistic pet care has come along way in just a short time, but
it still has a way to go to be accepted and utilized by more
pet owners.
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