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Holistic Health for Dogs
by Kate Daniels
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Overview
Ultrafine needles are used in the practice of veterinary acupuncture.
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Holistic medicine has been practiced for centuries. According to the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, holistic medicine treats the body as a whole, rather than a collection of symptoms and illnesses. The physical state of the dog can be affected by his environment, emotional condition and nutrition. In many cases, holistic health treatments are used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures.
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Types
Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils, distilled from flowers, herbs and plants. The oils are either applied to the skin or inhaled by the dog. Each oil has a therapeutic quality. Acupuncture is based on the Chinese belief that a life force called chi flows through the body by way of channels known as meridians. A blockage of the flow of the chi can lead to disease in the dog. Ultrathin needles, inserted along the meridians, open the channel, allowing the chi flow to normalize. Acupressure works similarly to acupuncture. The main difference is that hands or electronic devices are used instead of needles. Reiki, meaning "universal life energy," originated in 19th century Japan. It is the channeling of healing energy, passed from the practitioner to the dog. The practitioner passes his hands, palms down, either on or directly over the dog's body. Chiropractic focuses on the relationship between vital organs and the nervous system. Chiropractors use a carefully choreographed series of manipulations to "adjust" the dog's joints, usually by hand.
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Benefits
Holistic health therapies are primarily used to restore the body to a normal state, allowing it to heal itself. This is accomplished in different ways depending on the treatment. Acupuncture and acupressure work by keeping pathways open to allow the free flow of energy. It is thought that when the energy flow is working properly, disease cannot flourish. Chiropractic restores movement to joints, allowing the nervous system and its connection to vital organs to work correctly. This, it is believed, allows the body to heal itself. Reiki allows the healing energy of the practitioner to transfer and move freely throughout the dog's body. It results in relaxation and stress reduction. The use of aromatic essential oils in aromatherapy has long been used to decrease stress. It is thought that stress can lead to an increase in disease.
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Education Requirements
Education requirements for holistic health practitioners range from none to rigorous, post-graduate training. Applicants desiring certification in veterinary chiropractic must first be veterinarians in good standing. Additionally, they must complete an approved animal chiropractic program and pass both written and clinical exams. According to the American Veterinary Acupuncture Society, a veterinary acupuncturist must be a licensed veterinarian with formal training in acupuncture for animals. Most states see the practice of acupuncture as a surgical procedure. Acupressure technicians require no specific training, though to become certified, they must complete a minimum of 500 hours of classroom training. Those desiring to practice reiki need no formal training. Many study under experienced reiki "masters." Aromatherapists may practice without regard to training. There are many classes and books available.
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Misconceptions
A common misconception is that conventional medicine and holistic treatments are mutually exclusive. To the contrary, many conventional veterinarians who subscribe to a belief in holistic health therapies will combine the two. Another common theory is that if a treatment is "natural" it must be safe. Safety can vary, depending upon the skill of the practitioner and in the case of herbs and supplements, quality of the plant or ingredients.
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Concerns
Holistic health care, like conventional medicine, can be dangerous if administered carelessly or without the proper knowledge. It is important to do diligent research before allowing your dog to undergo holistic treatments. Gather information on the treatments. Solicit advice and recommendations from your dog's primary veterinarian. Ask about credentials, years of practice and references from current and former clients. This is particularly vital in the case of therapies with no or minimal education requirements and certifications.
