written by RAQUEL WYNN, BS, CPT, CSCS LMT
author of "Stretch Your Dog Healthy"
Disclaimer: We encourage you to talk with your Veterinarian before you begin any non-traditional treatments/supplements for your pet.
Preventative versus conventional medicine…While it’s common for advocates of naturopathic and conventional medicine to be at odds with each other, this does not need to be so.Each modality has a place, and finding out where your “dog is at” health-wise should determine the approach you take.Talk with your vet and people in your canine community who can help you compile the facts to arrive at an educated decision, then, embark on the road to health!The methodologies of these to perspectives may be different, but the motivation is the same – getting the patient back to homeostasis and therefore, closer to health.Naturopathic medicine touts the importance of a preventative approach when dealing with the body, while conventional medicine offers a reactive approach.There are times when a condition has become so acute that conventional medicine is the only option.Surgeries and prescription drugs have saved many a dog, however, in less acute cases of disease, these options are risky, extreme, and often unnecessary.
A finely tuned machine, your pup’s body relies on various things for efficient and healthful functioning of the body systems.For instance, Spot’s cells require vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, water, and more for cellular repair to occur.All bodies experience breakdown, but it is the rate at which this occurs that is determined by your choices.Feeding your dog the proper food plays a major role in the health s/he will experience.So, nutrition is a part of all naturopathic “prescriptions” for health.On the other hand, conventional medicine does not fret too much over nutrition, a fact that will hopefully change in the future!Proper nutrition, stretching & massage, exercise, and socialization are all components of health.The physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies must all be in balance for true health to occur.Looking at the body as complete and interdependent is what holism, or holistic medicine, is all about.Approach your dog’s health with an open-minded and preventative attitude.If you pup is experiencing problems, behavioral or physical, try to discern and address the cause of dis-ease.Seek to remedy the dilemma rather than just treat the symptom.
NATURAL WAYS TO PROMOTE CANINE HEALTH
(watch for links on specific topics coming soon!)
Stretching
Massage
Proper Nutrition
Adequate, fresh water
Herbs
Flower Essences (aromatherapy)
Acupressure
Chiropractic Care
Consistent Exercise
Weight Management
