Health care is not only a huge issue among people, but is increasingly so for our beloved pets as well.

Alternative medicine for dogs is quickly gaining in popularity as more pet owners seek natural ways to treat their dogs, birds, cats, and all other pets without depending on pharmaceutical therapies. Instead of relying on drugs, pet lovers are focusing on the whole animal.

To learn about some popular alternative therapy treatments for dogs and their needs, keep reading.

Osteopathy and Chiropractic Care

Studies show that manipulations of the body and bone structure based upon a firm understanding of anatomy are effective for limiting human back pain, joint pain and spinal column discomfort. In 1996, the American Veterinary Medical Association reported "sufficient clinical and anecdotal evidence exists to indicate that veterinary chiropractic can be beneficial."

While virtually no research has been carried out on the value of osteopathy for dogs, anecdotal evidence suggests the treatments are effective and especially helpful during recovery after an injury or accident.

Acupuncture Needles

Normally, acupuncture is used as a pain treatment for dogs in lieu of painkillers or sometimes ineffective arthritic relief therapies. By puncturing certain points, acupuncture stimulates the brain to release endorphins, a natural pain killer.

Remember that acupuncture for dogs should only be performed by a veterinary acupuncturist and should not be done by an acupuncturist who only works on people. It is a medical procedure and should be treated as such. Instead, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation in your area.

Herbal Medicine

While herbs and plants are a major source for all pharmaceutical drugs, herbal remedies use the whole plant rather than an isolated chemical. In herbalist medicine, the choice of herbs will depend on both the dog's personality as well as its medical condition.

Most conventional veterinarians understand and accept the medicinal value of herbal therapies find it difficult to accept the ancient concepts that underlie traditional herbalism. Because toxic doses for dogs have not been calculated for many herbs, most veterinarians are, understandably, hesitant to prescribe or recommend an herbal program.

Relaxation and Massage

The ability to relax and breathe is critical to good health - and the same benefit applies to dogs. Teaching dogs to relax or engaging in pet massage is a great way to naturally boost the immune system, increase the dog's alertness, reduce anxiety and even improve digestive function. Most veterinarians will recommend massage and relaxation as part of a healthy dog's daily program.

Homeopathic Treatment

Even the American Veterinary Medical Association has concluded that veterinary homeopathy may be beneficial for dogs. Because homeopathy is typically non-toxic, particularly in low doses, it is considered safe for canines.

The number of veterinarians who prescribe or include homeopathic remedies and alternative medicine for dogs is increasing. Many vets are willing to accept evidence that natural remedies can work.

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