Naturally Healing

Alternative Medicine for Pets

As most of us two-legged species look for more alternative ways of healing our ailments, today, more than ever, this is also true of our fellow canine and feline friends.

Veterinary Acupuncture

One of the most common alternative practices for pets is veterinary acupuncture. Physicians have been using acupuncture on animals since the 1970s, and it has been practiced in China for thousands of years. Acupuncture can treat various ailments, including musculoskeletal problems like arthritis, skin issues like dermatitis, gastrointestinal problems, and more. The treatment involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing. Research suggests positive results, and when administered correctly, acupuncture is one of the safest treatments for animals.

Healing Herbs

Many herbs can benefit our pets. For older dogs, celery is a great source of nourishment with anti-inflammatory properties. Holistic veterinarians believe that dogs and cats can self-medicate using herbs and vegetables from the garden. Alfalfa can help with sore joints and mobility issues, and other herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary offer various health benefits for pets. Observing your pet nibbling on specific herbs may be a sign of self-medicating with holistic healing properties from your yard.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy, a natural medicine used for centuries in humans and pets, involves treating problems with tiny doses of natural substances that could produce similar symptoms in larger amounts. Droppers of homeopathic remedies can be added to your pet’s diet to address issues like skin problems, behavioral concerns, surgery recovery, ear and eye problems, and more.

Bowen Treatment

Bowen treatment is gaining popularity and entails touch and massage to stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. This minimally invasive technique can benefit animals of all sizes and has shown positive results in improving overall happiness, pain issues, skin conditions, allergies, and behavior problems. Bowen treatment specialists and holistic veterinarians can provide more information on this effective technique.

Holistic Veterinarians

Holistic veterinarians are practitioners of veterinary medicine who use alternative treatments alongside traditional methods to emphasize empathy and minimally invasive approaches. Many holistic veterinarians are also traditional veterinarians who have expanded their training into alternative medicines. They often work in collaboration with traditional veterinarians to provide the best care for pets, particularly those with complex issues or cancer. Combining alternative techniques with traditional veterinary care can offer your pet the best of both worlds. If your pet faces health challenges, consider discussing these methods with your local veterinarian to improve their well-being and health.

A BIT ABOUT THE BLOGGER:

Nadia Crighton is a well-known and accomplished Australian Journalist and pet magazine Editor. As a busy mum of four humans, two dogs, 50 sheep, three cats, a handful of chickens and a goat named Billy, she simply adores pets of all shapes and sizes.

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