It is our strong opinion that the best veterinarian for your pet should be one that is open to both traditional and complementary treatments.

Why don't more veterinarians practice holistic medicine?

Few veterinary schools teach wellness programs. Traditional veterinary courses - like traditional medicine courses - focus on conventional drug therapies.

While allopathic knowledge is absolutely critical, doctors that are familiar with and willing to consider natural treatments and have a wider arsenal of treatments in our opinion will be more effective.

Very few vets are concerned today with the prevention of diseases and with an holistic view of the pet, this is where alternative therapies carry a distinct advantae.

The other reason few doctors practice holistic medicine is that it takes time, and isn't necessarily profitable. However things are starting to change as affluent pet owners are becoming more educated and increasingly willing to pay premium dollar for holistic treatments.

Finally the perception and stigma still remains and conventional drug companies do a stellar job of creating a quackish perception of anything that isn't conventional medicine and doctors are fearful of recommending non traditional approaches.

Charlatans exist in all disciplines, traditional and alternative. For the most part, we have witnessed significant succes with alternative therapies.

Our advise is if your doctor is not open to a holistic approach, find one who is.

Evaluate your pet’s current veterinarian. If he or she is open to complementary therapies, your current doctor can treat your pet’s basic needs with a holistic approach, and refer you to a doctor who performs complementary therapies when those are needed. If your doctor is not open to a holistic approach, find one that is.

Second, is your veterinarian using nutritional supplements as part of their therapy for your dog's allergies. Hopefully, this trend towards using supplements as part of the treatment of various conditions is here to stay.

If you feel that your current doctor can treat your pet holistically, ask someone you know who uses a holistic veterinarian for a referral.

You can also get referrals at health food stores, pet stores, or natural grocery stores. Pet and health food stores often have advertisements for holistic doctors and holistic veterinarians in the area. The internet is an instant resource for veterinarians advertising holistic care. Finally, the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association is another good source for referrals.

Once you have a short list, call the vet offices. Usually the service you receive from the receptionist is a good first level indicator of the service you will receive from the doctor, as office culture makes its way down from the top. Ask if the doctor is open to complementary therapies.