Holistic medicine is a practice that has been used and trusted for over 5,000 years. Although it has evolved to compliment today’s modern wellness practices, the blend of Eastern and Western techniques offers a more complete way to achieve health and balance.

The best part is that this form of natural healthcare isn’t exclusive to humans. 

As a licensed acupuncturist and veterinarian, I can attest to holistic medicine’s wide variety of benefits and have personally seen how significantly it improves the health and lives of my clients. 

Here is everything you need to know about holistic healthcare for your pets and some of the most popular practices that your beloved companion may benefit from. 

What is Holistic Health?

Holistic healthcare is a form of medicine that establishes physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being as pillars of your overall health. Think of it as taking a look at the “whole you” instead of focusing on only one aspect of your health at a time.

Holistic practitioners like myself believe that being unwell in just one of these aspects can affect you in others, and this applies to both people and animals. 

Benefits of Holistic Medicine

Since holistic medicine treats the root cause of illness instead of just the symptoms, your pets will enjoy various short-term and long-term benefits. Some of those include: 

• Improved pain management
• Stronger immune system
• Fewer side effects from medications
• Enhanced overall happiness 

7 Types of Holistic Healthcare For Pets

1. Supplements

It’s difficult for your pet to receive all the vitamins and nutrients they need to sustain their well-being from food alone. That’s why introducing supplements to their everyday regimen is a great idea. 

If you want to take a more holistic approach to your pet’s healthcare, not just any supplements will do. It’s important to do your research and look for supplements that are made with healthy ingredients backed by science. 

Some years ago, I was shocked by how difficult it was to find supplements that had all the qualities I wanted for my patients. That’s why my best friend and I joined forces to create Fera Pet Organics. Our supplements are low in fillers and high in organic ingredients that are so pure, you could eat them yourself!  

From immune support to healthy skin and coat, our supplements for both dogs and cats will keep your pets feeling good and running free for years to come. 

2. Nutrition

Food is fuel for the body, and the quality of your pet’s food has a huge impact on their overall health. The right diet will not only provide the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy, but help reduce inflammation, prevent obesity, and ease symptoms of chronic illness. 

Several holistic pet food brands are available today, and while many are great options, you shouldn’t feel limited to only these options.

Check any pet food labels to ensure protein is used as a main ingredient and contents like corn, wheat, and soy are excluded. Carbohydrate-rich foods should also be avoided. 

Before sure to discuss any major diet changes with your veterinarian before switching your pet’s food. 

3. Acupuncture

This is one of my specialties! The practice of acupuncture has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve pain and cure diseases in humans and animals alike, and the benefits shouldn’t be overlooked.

Sometimes, the natural flow of energy to specific points in your pet’s body becomes blocked, which can lead to numerous ailments. Thin needles are inserted into these points to stimulate and unblock them.

Acupuncture is a great treatment for pets that suffer from joint and muscle pain, are healing from physical trauma or surgery, or battling diseases like diabetes and cancer. 

4. Chiropractic

Nerves are abundant in your pet’s spine. When these nerves become pinched by misaligned vertebrae, it can cause painful conditions in the neck and back. 

A licensed chiropractor will move these bones back into place to relieve your pet’s pain. If you’re worried about the doctor using aggressive force to crack your pet’s spine, don’t be! Pet chiropractic treatments are much gentler than our own, so you won’t hear any cracking. 

5. Massage

Your pets can enjoy the same benefits from a good massage as you. Not only does it feel great, but it improves blood flow, reduces swelling, diminishes anxiety and stress, and much more. 

This form of holistic healthcare for pets is best performed by a trained animal massage therapist, but you could learn to do it yourself if you wish to use it as a form of preventative care at home. 

6. Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a fantastic option to help pets beat stress, build muscle, increase mobility, and improve circulation. 

If your pet is recovering from an injury or surgery, hydrotherapy may be recommended. It’s also a common treatment for pets that are elderly, obese, or need low-impact cardiovascular activity. 

During a typical session, your pet will enter a heated pool with a physical therapist for a guided swim or walk on an underwater treadmill. 

7. Aromatherapy

Scent is a huge contributor to your pet’s mental health, so the use of essential oils is a great natural remedy if they struggle with anxiety. 

Scents like lavender, chamomile, frankincense, rosemary, and ginger are ideal and safe for calming a stressed pet. Just be sure to diffuse with care! 

Another thing to keep in mind is that some essential oils can be toxic to pets. Here are the ones you’ll want to avoid: 

• Tea tree oil (melaleuca)
• Clove
• Ylang ylang
• Sweet birch
• Cinnamon
• Thyme
• Peppermint
• Pennyroyal

Holistic Pet Products You Can Trust

Fera Pet Organics is setting a new standard for pet supplements, and we’d be honored to have you and your beloved fur babies be a part of this incredible journey towards better health for pets. 

Unlock your pet's health potential with insights from industry expert veterinarian Dr. Michelle Dulake, who combines her vast knowledge and experience to create a thriving, happy life for your furry companion.