What Does Holistic Care Look Like For Your Dog?
Many people make holistic care practices like massage and acupuncture a part of their regular health care routine, but did you know there is a growing interest in holistic care for pets? Holistic vets are able to give helpful advice and suggestions on what kind of services are available for your furry friend.
What Is Holistic Dog Care?
The holistic care approach for dogs focuses on the mind, spirit and body — just like for humans. Holistic dog care could be a good option for your furry friend if:
- Your dog isn’t responding well to traditional medicines or therapies.
- You’d like to complement your pup’s wellness routine with additional care.
- Your pet is aging or ill, and holistic treatments provide additional comfort for them.
- Holistic medicine continues to grow in popularity, both for humans and for pets.
- Your vet may even have advice about what holistic treatments might be an especially good fit for your dog!
Holistic Dog Care
Holistic care considers many aspects of your dog’s health and wellness, and different methods can be used to address health issues through lifestyle changes. As always, consult with your veterinarian before choosing any treatment for your dog, and check with them before altering your dog’s healthcare routine. Here are some examples of what holistic care for your dog could look like in practice:
Aromatherapy: We all know about the power of a dog’s nose. Essential oil blends can tap into that powerful tool with aromatherapy to help your dog stay calm and relaxed, especially during a stressful situation like a thunderstorm. Make sure to only use aromatherapy under the guidance of your dog’s vet, as certain essential oils can be toxic for animals.
Chiropractic care: Chiropractic care can be beneficial for dogs with arthritis or other joint or muscle issues. Hands-on chiropractic treatments adjust your dog’s musculoskeletal alignment and should only be done by a trained professional.
Diet: A healthy diet is one of the keys to having a healthy dog. Your vet can discuss the best dog food options for your dog’s specific breed, size and health history.
Massage: A gentle massage can increase your dog’s blood flow, reduce pain and help them achieve next-level relaxation — just like it can for humans!
Exercise: Getting active isn’t just sound advice for humans; it can help improve or maintain your dog’s health as well. Getting outside for a sunny game of fetch can be a great option for both of you!
Benefits Of Holistic Dog Care
Holistic dog care can have many benefits for your pup — and it’s not unusual to notice an improvement in a dog’s health fairly quickly after beginning holistic treatments. Signs that certain holistic therapies are working well for your dog can include a better appetite, improved mood, less anxiety or a healthier-looking coat.
If you’re interested in integrating a few holistic dog care treatments into your pet’s life, discuss your options with your vet. Many vets use an integrated approach with both traditional methodology and holistic care to find the perfect balance for a dog's needs.
