Holistic dog treatment involves a combination of conventional medicine and holistic medicine. It uses practices such as massage, acupuncture therapy, herbal remedies, chiropractic therapy, nutrition, and sound therapy.
Acupuncture
This is a traditional Chinese veterinary treatment. It is done by inserting a needle in specific joints where nerves and blood vessels converge to relieve pressure and pain in the body. The location of the joints is called meridians, which are energy channels that transmit energy throughout the dog’s body. The needle is meant to boost blood circulation which accelerates the healing process.
Acupuncture treatment also increases the release of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substances by stimulating the nervous system. It is useful for dogs suffering from arthritis, a limp, muscle spasm, and back pain. For dogs that can’t take a needle and areas which a needle can’t reach, the acupressure technique is used. This is done by applying pressure to specific points.
Massage
Massage therapy is useful to all dogs from puppies to older ones. Try the simple and less intense and leave the deep tissue massage to the experts. For a dog to be calm try the forehead rub, this is good because all the calming points are located in the head.
Start from the nose and rub gently over the head going down. Make sure you monitor the body language of the dog. The dog will be calm and lean into your arms if he is enjoying the massage. Massage helps in blood circulation, reduces swelling and anxiety in dogs. It is also an opportunity to bond with your dog.
Aromatherapy
Just like humans, dogs are more sensitive to smell. Inhaling natural oils sends the effects into the bloodstream. It helps improve calmness and lessen stress in dogs. The recommended oils should be 100% pure essential oils. Aromatherapy can be done either by inhaling the essential oils or absorption through the skin. The essential oils may be useful for the dog’s liver, immune system, and digestive system.
Aromatherapy has the emotional effects of reducing anxiety, fear, anger, nervousness, and aggressive behaviors. It is effective for treating physical problems such as pain, irritation, joint problems, bad breath, inflammation, and others. For inhaling, use a diffuser it acts as an air freshener the dog will enjoy the smell. When applying on the skin, look for the areas with less fur such as legs, under the neck, belly, and inner thighs.
Herbs
Herbs are natural and efficient for dogs because they have no side effects on the body. Holistic veterinarians can recommend a combination of herbs for a dog’s well-being. Some of the common herbs are chamomile, kava, cinnamon, coriander. They are used to soothe the dog and for digestion. The spicy herbs are good for fighting cancer and breath-freshening.