- There are many schools of alternative medicine lumped under the term of being "natural." With pets, the most effective schools include chiropractic treatments, acupressure, acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, herbalism, nutritional therapy, Reiki, massage and homeopathy. Other natural pet medicine that only occasionally works with dogs is aromatherapy, because the dogs' sensitive nose is often so overwhelmed by the smell of essential oils that it may get them sick or stressed. Crystal therapy, color therapy or urine therapy should not be used on pets.
- Conventional medicine should always be tried first, especially with sudden injuries, pregnancy problems or tumors. Natural pet medicine and therapies are best reserved for pets with chronic problems that can't be quickly fixed, such as behaviorial problems, skin allergies, food allergies, arthritis or asthma.
- Just because a label says it is natural does not mean that it is completely safe for your pet. Many herbs or homeopathic remedies are powerful medications with side effects and interactions with other medicines that you need to be aware of. Also, there isn't any government regulation over many herbs or homeopathic remedies, so you may not be assured of getting a consistent quality of natural pet medicines. It is always best to talk to your vet first before giving any natural pet medicines.
- Natural pet medicines or therapies can be expensive and usually are not covered under pet health insurance. These are not quick fixes, but often need to be given throughout the life of the pet. Your pet may need to go to several acupuncture treatments, for example, in order to get relief from arthritis. Treatment is often quite complicated, taking into consideration the entire life history of the pet instead of just focusing on relieving painful signs.
- Because of the demand for alternative medicines and therapies, there are more holistic veterinarians, chiropractors, herbalists and acupuncturists than ever before. Ask your vet for a recommendation of a professional alternative veterinary practitioner in your area and if such alternative therapies would really have a chance of working for your pet's particular condition. You can also check out the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association or the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society websites to find someone locally to help you.
