naturalpet


PAIN-FREE PETS


NATURAL WAYS TO PROVIDE RELIEF


by Dr. Matthew J. Heller


or surgery, seek diagnosis and assistance from a trusted inte- grative veterinarian.


Mounting evidence from institutions such as the Ameri-


can Holistic Veterinary Medical Association and American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture supports the use of alternative modalities to effectively manage pain and pro- vide relief. Some of the most common include the following approaches.


Nutraceuticals These non-drug nutrients play a significant role in strength- ening normal body tissues, repairing damaged tissues and improving efficient body metabolism. Pet guardians may use vet-recommended nutraceuticals for up to six to eight weeks to manage low levels of pain.


Homeopathic Remedies


Homeopathic remedies, sometimes referred to as homotoxi- cology, comprise the use of plant and animal materials to stimulate the body into action; homeopathy is often explained as, “Like heals like.” Specifically, exposure to a large amount of a toxin (e.g., poison ivy or arsenic or anthrax) would likely cause specific physical problems, but in a small, controlled dose, it may stimulate the body to heal similar problems. We regularly apply Traumeel, manufactured by Heel, a blend of 12 homeopathic remedies for temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with bruises, sprains and injuries such as dislocations, fractures and trauma. It can also ease pain associated with inflammation and arthritis. Forms include dissolvable tablets, ointments and drops.


in animals is tricky because it’s subjective and its expression varies with each animal. Some pets are stoic when faced with horrible injuries, while others howl over minor ailments. Humans complain, grumble and often self-medicate to alleviate their aches. A pet may need help and be communi- cating, “I hurt!” if any of the following signs are evident.


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n Being unusually withdrawn, inactive, restless or exceptionally clingy


n Refusing to walk stairs or not rising quickly when called n Avoiding physical contact, such as being lifted or carried n Whining, whimpering, howling or meowing constantly n Biting or continually licking a particular part of the body n Flattening ears against the head n Loss of appetite


Changes in behavior may be the only way a cat or dog will communicate its plea for relief from pain. Keep in mind that in nature, predators seek out animals that display signs of pain or injury as a preferred target, so it’s natural to hide pain as a protective measure. In the event of a trauma, illness


22 San Diego Edition


roviding pain relief for pets is important, whether they are recovering from an injury or surgery or suffering from a chronic problem. But recognizing signs of pain


Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) is a holistic approach that considers each being as a whole—body, mind and spirit—and takes into account both diet and environ- ment. For the practitioner, disease is the result of an imbal- ance of the body’s energy flow, which needs to be redirected, rebalanced and restored.


Herbal formulas are prepared for pets suffering from mus- culoskeletal injuries due to an acute trauma, like a sprain or back injury, or a chronic discomfort, such as arthritis. They are available in capsules, powders and tea pills. In medical terms, acupuncture can assist the body to


heal itself by effecting certain physiological changes, such as increasing blood circulation and relieving muscle spasms. General conditions treated by acupuncture include arthritis; back pain; muscle pain and spasms; and stroke. A simple acute problem like a sprain may require only one treatment, where more severe or chronic ailments may require multiple sessions.


…continued on page 24 www.na-sd.com


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