Homeopathy for Dogs: A Different Approach to Health Care for Your Dog
by Julie-Ann Amos
When our dog is sick, we typically take him to the vet, where he is examined, diagnosed, and prescribed one or more medications. This is the traditional veterinary medicine we’re familiar with, the animal version of human medicine. But many pet owners are turning to an alternative method of caring for their canine companions. It’s called homeopathy and it’s based on a holistic approach to a pet’s health care. Instead of simply diagnosing a physical ailment, dog homeopathy also takes into account the dog’s mental state and overall condition, to come up with a full picture of the situation. This allows the veterinarian to then tailor the dog’s treatment holistically to its specific needs and symptoms.
Where did it come from?
Homoeopathy (sometimes spelled homeopathy interchangeably although homoeopathy is correct) was developed in the 1800s by a German physician named Samuel Hahnemann. His different view of medicine developed after he discovered that he could use small dilutions of existing medicines to help his patients fight disease. Using his dilutions caused similar symptoms rather than trying to get rid of symptoms. If that’s a little confusing, think of it this way - it’s like treating allergies by regularly exposing someone to small doses of what they’re allergic to, so that their body is desensitized to it.
How is homeopathy applied to animals?
Veterinary homeopathy also uses this different approach - we’re used to veterinarians giving our dogs medicines that try to make symptoms go away, but the homeopathic approach uses medicine to enhance and assist the dog’s own defense mechanisms. The focus is on dealing with the underlying disease, not just suppressing the symptoms, with dog homoeopathy.
What if my dog is not sick but has other issues?
Another aspect of homeopathy for dogs is its ability to treat dogs with personality issues. Even though they’re not physical ailments, things like separation anxiety, aggression or fearfulness can seriously disrupt the lives of both dog and dog owner. Traditional medicine offers drugs that can suppress these issues, but when the drug stops the issue returns. Homeopathy for dogs works differently, often leading to a permanent cure in the long term.
Is Dog Homeopathy Safe?
While it sounds different and unconventional, homeopathy for dogs and othe animals is a recognized form of treatment by the American Veterinary Medical Association when used by a veterinarian with postgraduate training in this area. In fact, homeopathy is quite common in many parts of the world, such as Europe and Australia, and is increasingly being used right alongside traditional medicine to treat animals.
How do I know if a vet is qualified?
If you’re thinking about taking your dog to a homeopathic veterinarian, do some homework ahead of time about required training and qualifications. Ask other dog owners who have tried dog homeopathy which practitioner they used.
Closing thoughts
Homeopathy for dogs is not a miracle cure or magic bullet. In fact, it can be slower to produce results than traditional medicine, but the process is gentler and the end results are often more successful for both you and your dog. When it comes to your best friend’s health, it’s worth the time and effort to look at alternative approaches to care and make an educated choice.
