Taking care of our pets' health is important. This means bringing them to the veterinarian when they are sick or injured. Most veterinarians use 'conventional medicine' to treat our pets' symptoms. Indeed, conventional medicine and surgery are invaluable in treating acute illnesses, trauma and other emergencies. Conventional diagnostic tests such as blood work, radiographs (x-rays) and ultrasound are also important in determining the cause of an illness. However, once a diagnosis has been made, particularly with chronic or difficult to treat diseases, our animal friends may benefit from a holistic approach to medicine.

The concept of holistic (or as some prefer 'wholistic') medicine emphasizes evaluation and treatment of the whole patient, rather than focusing on a specific disease. Typically this involves addressing all aspects of an animal's life to identify sources of stress that may contribute to illness. We recognize the importance of a wholesome diet of fresh food, exercise, and a loving family in maintaining our own health and well-being. The same is true for our 4-legged companions.

In general, alternative or complementary therapies aim to help support the body to heal itself. Practitioners of holistic medicine may employ one or more modalities to help a patient, or, when appropriate, integrate holistic and conventional medicine.

There are numerous complementary and alternative therapies currently in use in veterinary medicine. Acupuncture, chiropractic, herbal or botanical medicine, homeopathy, aromatherapy and flower essences are among the most widely used modalities. As people are becoming more aware of the benefits to be obtained from these therapies and seeking holistic care for themselves and their animals, a growing number of veterinarians are pursuing additional training and certification in one or more of these fields. There are also a growing number of books for laypeople written or coauthored by veterinarians who have specialized in holistic medicine. These books explain how various therapies may benefit animals with different conditions.

Holistic medicine is not a 'prescribe it yourself' form of home therapy for your pet. While many holistic remedies may be available at the local herb store, you should consult a veterinarian knowledgeable in holistic medicine before administering them to your beloved companion. Remember, plants are the source of many conventional drugs, and in the wrong dosages can be extremely toxic or even deadly.

Dr. Sarah Green, DMV and Veterinary Housecalls practice a form of integrated therapy combining the holistic and conventional approaches to veterinary medicine.

Always remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet!

Following is a partial list of references recommended by Dr. Sarah Green, DVM:

• Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats by Richard Pitcairn and Susan Pitcairn
• Complete Holistic Dog Book: Home Health Care for our Canine Companions by Jan Allegretti and Katy Sommers
• The Nature of Animal Healing: The Path to Your Pet's Health, Happiness and Longevity by Martin Goldstein
• Four Paws, Five Directions. A Guide to Chinese Medicine for Cats and Dogs by Cheryl Schwartz, DVM
• Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs by Don Hamilton, DVM
• Herbs for Pets by Mary Wulff-Tilford and Gregory Tilford
• Bach Flower Remedies for Animals by Helen Graham and Gregory Vlamis