• Holistic remedies can help animals stay healthy and balanced.chien tres fatigu?? image by gilles vall??e from Fotolia.com
  
  Holistic medicine has been practiced in countries such as China and India for centuries, and its popularity is growing throughout the Western world. These remedies are not limited to people. They can be used on animals as well. Holistic treatments are designed to treat the whole animal and the root cause of an illness or condition. These non-invasive treatments are gentle and based on natural methods and products, so there are fewer risks of side effects.
  
  

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture has been practiced in China for thousands of years. It involves the use of needles, placed at strategic points throughout the body, to stimulate qi (inner energy). Different points are stimulated to treat different ailments. Acupuncture is painless and can reduce stress, even for animals. Pets undergoing acupuncture often relax enough to sleep during the procedure. Horses were the first animals to be treated with acupuncture, but veterinary surgeons now perform the procedure on cats, dogs and other pets.
  
  

Vitamins

• Like humans, animals need to have balanced levels of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin supplements (or foods rich in vitamins) can help strengthen your pet's immune system to ward off illness and disease. They can also give your pet the energy it needs on a daily basis and keep your pet's body functioning at its best. Your veterinarian can help you evaluate your pet's diet and recommend vitamin supplements.
  
  

Herbs

• You can also add herbal supplements to your pet's diet. If your pet has a specific health problem, certain herbs may help with that condition. For example, ginger can help treat your pet's car sickness or diarrhea. Always talk to your vet before giving your pet herbal supplements. Some supplements can interact with other medications, which can lead to even more health problems. With your vet's help, you can find safe herbal supplements to add to your pet's diet or medication.
  
  

Essential Oils

• Essential oils are natural, pure, unaltered oils that are pressed from plants. They are applied topically or used in aromatherapy to treat a variety of physical, emotional and mental ailments, including stress, joint pain and insomnia. Some essential oils can be used on pets, but they should be used with caution. Our pets are not built the same way we are, and oils can have a different effect on a dog or cat than on a human. Get the recommendation of a veterinarian before using essential oils on your pet.