Holistic Pet Care

by Pamela J. Ditonto, D.V.M.

People often look at the name of my clinic and ask what it is that I do. When I explain that my veterinary practice is focused on classical homeopathy, chiropractic and nutrition I am often met by a similar response—“They do that for animals?”

Unfortunately we are seeing an ever-increasing incidence of chronic dis-ease and illness in our pet population (humans too) and true cure and health alludes us. While many people are seeking holistic healing methods for themselves, few may be aware that these same modalities (healing methods) are appropriate for the care of their animal friends as well. Under the “umbrella” of holistic therapy is collected a multitude of healing modalities including (but not limited to) Homeopathy, Chiropractic, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, Herbs, NAET, Reiki, Healing Touch, Nutrition, Bach Flower Remedy therapy, Aromatherapy and Massage. Many of the holistic modalities look at the signs and symptoms that a patient is experiencing from a different perspective than we are used to in conventional medicine.

Generally, in conventional medicine (often referred to as western or allopathic) the focus of treatment is to make a symptom go away—as long as the physical symptom is no longer present, the treatment is considered to be a success. Many holistic approaches recognize that these physical symptoms are present for a reason and that the focus should be to address the underlying cause of the symptom and in so doing, long term health and well-being can be restored. Most holistic therapies focus on a patient as being more than simply a physical symptom and respect the innate ability of a living being to heal itself. They address the entire individual including body, mind and spirit and take into consideration not only the presenting complaint or symptom but also the entirety of the patient’s physical and emotional being, environment, stress level and diet. Close attention is paid to how all of these things interact and play out for an individual not only in dis-ease, but also in a state of balance or health.

In order to remain true to any one modality, it is generally considered best not to mix the various treatment methods in a single patient. Many of these holistic approaches are capable of standing alone as the only necessary means for treatment. It is not necessary to combine western medicine with these other approaches and often times it is worse to try to use a western medicine approach along side of an alternative treatment. Each of these modalities follows its own philosophy and interpretation of what signs and symptoms mean in a patient and how this outward indication of dis-ease relates to the patient as a whole. This in turn will guide us to a treatment plan. Often there is additional focus on preventive measures such as high quality nutrition, exercise, eliminating exposure to toxins and decreasing stress.

Holistic therapies cannot be learned and mastered quickly and deserve the same commitment and time one would spend in learning conventional medical principles and application. Therefore, when seeking holistic advice and medical treatment, ask about training and/or certification. It is recommended to find a veterinarian who has extensive training and/or certification from a well-respected source in their field of practice. Organizations exist such as the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy, the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association, International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture, and the Veterinary Botanical Medicine Association which offer courses as well as lists members and referral practitioners.

When implemented properly, a holistic approach to care and healing for our pets can provide them with a lifetime of health and well-being.

Dr. Ditonto is a graduate of Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She has extensive training in Classical Homeopathy, Animal Chiropractic, NAET and nutrition. She can be reached at Holistic Veterinary Options, P.C. (616) 554-9905, pditonto@aol.com.