With recent movements in alternative and complimentary health care practices, it is not surprising to want to include our pets in these practices. When considering any alternative or homeopathic treatments for your pet, it is always good to consider professional consultation with a specialist trained in alternative medicine for companion animals to determine your pet's suitability for these treatments.

A quick search of the Internet will unearth many alternative treatments available to pets, some able to be conducted from home and other more specialized services conducted by a trained professional. Topics range from diet to supplements to grooming, skin, and joint care. With such a wealth of areas in alternative medicine for companion animals, I will attempt to give an overview of some common holistic animal care practices.

Traditional Acupuncture and Acupressure

As found in humans, companion animals or pets, are also found to benefit from acupuncture and acupressure when delivered properly. Acupuncture is a treatment involving the insertion of small needles in specific areas of the pet's body to treat a variety of different symptoms and is frequently used in pets experiencing chronic pain (ie. arthritis or injury). Acupressure is akin to acupuncture but involves the application of pressure on specific areas of the pet instead of needles. These treatments can be used in conjunction with a pet's pain care regime prescribed by a veterinarian or alone under the care of a qualified practitioner.

Massage and Reiki

The use of massage or the less invasive practice of reiki has proven holistic benefits to pet's beyond physical ailments and can significantly alter behavioural complaints with regular practice. Both practices can be learned by an interested pet owner online or where these types of alternative health practices are taught. There are established, governing bodies for these practices and if interested, these are always a good source of information if looking for a practitioner in your area or want general information.

Diet and Nutritional Supplements

Like our own dietary requirements, the dietary needs of our companion animals change over time. Also like ourselves, pets can have allergies or sensitivities to certain foods. While pets do not share human dietary needs, pets can share different food and nutritional supplements. Real food diets and supplements are gaining popularity with pets and a good rule of thumb is to do your research before changing your pet's diet. Lamb, rice, fish, and chicken are some of the components found in real food pet diets and diet supplements like glucosamine are being used in joint health for pets. Again these choices will cater specifically to your pet's needs and require careful research if not possibly a professional consultation to assure your pet's well being. Always use the utmost caution, consideration, and patience with these choices.

Grooming

There are a vast number of alternative grooming practices for your pet and some will test your creativity or dexterity. Replacing a wet bath for talcum powder (dogs) or bran flakes (cats) will effectively remove excess oils from the coat when sprinkled into the coat and brushed through. Petroleum jelly acts as an effective barrier against road salt and other winter elements when applied generously to foot pads. Try placing a small dab of your favourite essential oil between your pet's ears for cologne effect.

These are just a sampling of the areas of holistic pet care and among the most popular. A savvy pet owner will consider their most suitable options and would be willing to provide the best treatment combinations for their pet no matter how tedious the treatment. The safety of the pet is always the primary consideration.