Holistic medicine - which includes conventional and alternative treatments - has been growing in popularity not just for human health, but also for our pets.
We paid a visit to VCA Lakeside Animal Hospital - an integrative veterinary medical facility in Northwest Reno to find out more.
Dr. Michelle Brim is working on her four legged patient, Missy and demonstrates a favorite practice. “So, I'm gonna put some calming a acupuncture needles in her to start with.”
Yes, you read that correctly - acupuncture - for dogs.
The doctor speaks calmly and quietly, massaging the dog while placing the needles. “Good girl,” she says. The treatment almost immediately has Missy lying down relaxed.
Dr. Brim says acupuncture is just one of the alternative treatments at VCA Lakeside Animal Hospital in Reno. More and more pet owners are now seeking therapies that are considered holistic
"Holistic can mean many, many modalities,” explains Dr. Brim, “homeopathy, Chinese herbs, Western herbs, acupuncture, massage therapy, laser.”
Dr. Brim was trained in traditional veterinary medicine, but became interested in alternative therapies when she discovered how they improved her own health. She says there are fewer side effects than with Western medicine and - holistic options work. "The successes are amazing and they are very individualistic.
Holistic medicine is not a fast fix like Western medicine tends to be. So, people have to be prepared to be committed to the treatment," says the doctor.
VCA Lakeside also recommends essential oils as treatment. The hospital uses diffusers- which disperse water and oils into the air - on a regular basis.
Hospital Manager Elizabeth Stanton has seen the positive effect of the essential oils firsthand. "You'll have several dogs barking, barking, barking, barking. You'll go in, diffuse for just a few minutes - gets in the kennels - it's all quiet,” Stanton explains.
You can introduce pets to the oils by rubbing a drop of lavender essential oil on the palm of your hand. “and then,” says Elizabeth, “hold it towards the animal and see if that's what they want - and need. Oftentimes for relieving anxiety, just the breath, just inhaling it will do the trick.”
Chinese herbs can be taken in the same way as traditional medicines. And, last but not least the doctor says - wholesome foods are vital for our furry friends. "I do believe nutrition is the foundation of health," says Dr. Brim.
VCA Lakeside Animal Hospital can train you how to use any or all of these methods. For more information, go to http://www.vcahospitals.com/lakeside-nv
