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Should You Consider Holistic Dog Health?

by: GeraldineDimarco
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Word Count: 547

Alternative health care for dogs, such as holistic healthcare, is quickly becoming the way for owners to make sure that their beloved pets are healthy, playful, and living long, happy, full lives.

Nutritional needs are perhaps the most important aspect to consider when it comes to a dog's health, as theirs are somewhat different from ours and will require a certain balance of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to ensure everything from the digestive systems to the bones, joints, and organs as well as the skin and coat are as healthy as possible. A diet of meat, vegetables, and whole grains without any processed foods or unnecessary fillers is usually recommended when following the holistic approach to dog care.

Herbal Alternatives to the Health of Your Dog

Throughout the course of various millennia, humans have controlled illness through the remedial use of various herbal, floral and other plant extracts. Because pet owners prefer less risky and less invasive treatment alternatives, pet care now incorporates ancient healing practices.

Canine herbal remedies include calendula and chamomile for treating wounds, with chamomile used to give relief for respiratory compaints as well. Flaxseed mixed with lots of water may help cure dogs who are constipated or have other bowel problems. Oats may help soothe your dog's dry, itchy skin, as they do the same thing for humans, and smelling lavender may help your pooch get some shut-eye if he is having difficulty sleeping.

Before concocting any type of herbal remedies of your own, make it a point to do plenty of research and be absolutely certain that what you're giving your dog isn't toxic or harmful in any way, as not all herbs and flowers are safe for pets, or even people for that matter. It is always wise to consult with your veterinarian about the proper care and possible remedies for holistic dog health.

Holistic Medicine for Animals

In recent years, thousands of veternarians have made holistic dog health a greater part of their practice. A vet practicing holistic pet medicine cares for the whole animal instead of just finding a specific problem and prescribing a single therapy for that particular trauma or disorder.

For instance, if your dog has suddenly come down with some sort of rash on his skin causing irritation, redness, itching, a possible infection, and some fur loss, a "regular" vet would probably prescribe an antibiotic to treat the skin infection and then perhaps a topical ointment to address the itching.

A holistic veterinarian will be more concerned about the source of the rash and why it happened even though they may still prescribe the two remedies. Keeping holistic care in mind, the dog's indoor and outdoor environment, its daily lifestyle, eating habits and nutritional intake are all to be considered before diagnosing or treating the animal.

With all the growing problems with recalls of pet food, decisions as to wether or not to vaccinate pets, possibility for excessive amounts of immunizations, or if we are giving pets too much medication - both as individuals and as a society - owners of dogs are still trying to find good ways to keep their pets healthy and content for as long as they can.

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About the Author

If you're wanting to look into holistic dog health as a manner of improving your dog's health, the very best holistic dog health site is www.HealthyHappyDogs.com  

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