The trend towards holistic medical approaches is not unique to humans. Pet owners are increasingly seeking natural remedy solutions, either alongside or in place of conventional medical treatments, to promote their pets health and well-being. This can be attributed to a growing awareness of the potential side effects associated with pharmaceuticals and a desire to enhance the quality of life for pets.
Some Common Therapies For Dogs:
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese therapy, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow (also known as “chi”) and promote healing. It has been shown to improve pain management and mobility in dogs, paralleling its human applications where it reduces anxiety and enhances overall well-being. It can be used to treat various conditions such as arthritis, where it has been shown to control pain and improve mobility. Also for digestive issues, and pain management after surgery or injury. Veterinary acupuncture is performed by certified practitioners.
Chiropractic
As in humans, chiropractic adjustments can help rectify spinal misalignments and joint problems, which may improve a dogs physical function and alleviate discomfort. Dogs often seem to enjoy chiropractic manipulations and its amazing to hear a skilled animal Chiropractor get a dog’s joint to crack! This therapy is particularly beneficial for active or working dogs who put a lot of strain on their bodies.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are gaining recognition for their potential to support immune function and promote healing. Some of them have quite a powerful medicinal effect so their use requires careful professional guidance to prevent adverse reactions and interactions with conventional treatments.
Massage Therapy
Dogs benefit from and enjoy massage therapy just as human do. Massage helps relieve muscle tension, improves circulation, and reduces anxiety. It’s particularly helpful for older dogs with joint pain, dogs recovering from surgery, or highly active breeds prone to overexertion. A professional canine massage therapist can target problem areas and customize the massage to suit your dog’s specific needs. Even a gentle at-home massage by a pet owner can provide benefits.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to improve health and well-being. For dogs, specific essential oils like lavender and chamomile can be calming and help alleviate stress or anxiety. Oils like peppermint can soothe sore muscles, and frankincense is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It's crucial to use high-quality, therapeutic-grade essential oils and dilute them properly before use. See our previous article about essential oils that can be toxic to dogs and do your research before trying anything new.
CBD Therapy
CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which is an oil extracted from hemp plants. There are now several CBD products formulated specifically for animals. They have been shown to have a calming effect, therefore helping anxiety, and are also useful for pain management.
Homeopathy
The idea with homeopathy is that ‘like cures like’, that is, if something in large doses causes a symptom in a healthy person, giving a very small amount of the same substance may cure the illness. It is best to consult an expert in the homeopathic treatment of animals but there are several good self help books available. Homeopathy is harmless so it is one of the safest methods to attempt to use yourself.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy involves the use of water to relieve pain and promote rehabilitation. It's particularly beneficial for dogs recovering from surgery or injury, dogs with arthritis, and older dogs with joint issues. The buoyancy of the water reduces the weight on their joints, making movement easier and less painful. Hydrotherapy can include swimming, underwater treadmills, or simply walking in water. Some veterinary clinics have hydrotherapy equipment.
Diet and Nutrition
Diet obviously plays a significant role in the overall health of all animals. Holistic veterinarians often recommend a diet that includes fresh, whole foods, free from additives and preservatives. A balanced diet tailored to your dog’s age, breed, and health conditions can help prevent disease, improve coat quality, and maintain energy levels. Sometimes incorporating supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and digestive enzymes can further support your dog’s health. Advice for a Veterinarian or animal nutritionist is advisable.
The harmonious combination of alternative treatments with conventional veterinary care can lead to a comprehensive and personalized approach, fostering not only the physical but also the emotional well-being of dogs across many health conditions.
Robin Logan,
RSHom