Choosing holistic veterinarians is similar in some ways to choosing a traditional vet. And in other ways, it's vastly different. I think the most important question to ask yourself is this; what do you want and expect from your animal's veterinarian?
Do you want your vet to smother your pet with love? Or do you prefer one who just gets down to business? Holistic vets take into account the whole pet…that's why it's called holistic. And that means taking into account not only their physical bodies, but their emotions, their environment, their diet and lifestyle. Personally, I would want an affectionate vet and I would absolutely watch my beloved animal's reaction to his or her doctor. If your dog or cat or iguana has an immediate negative reaction to his vet, then run, don't walk, out their door.
Here are some excellent tips for choosing a holistic vet.
Environment. What's the feeling when you first walk into their office? Holistic vets understand the importance of creating a peaceful and safe environment for an animal and this is reflected in the vibe you feel when you walk in. It may sound inconsequential, but it's not. This is one of the biggest differences I've noticed between veterinarians who practice traditionally, versus holistic veterinarians. I've sat in animal hospitals and traditional vet waiting rooms where the atmosphere hasn't been considered in the well being of the animal or the animal's parent. The tone was tense and uncomfortable.
Where did they go to school? What's their training? Check the Holistic Veterinary Medical Association for referrals to vets in your area. Go to www.ahvma.org (opens in a new window)
What modalities do they use? Acupuncture? Homeopathy? Herbs? Chiropractic? Do they use a mixture of both traditional and holistic? Your pet can often benefit from both. Sometimes drugs are needed, say, to clear up an infection. That treats the symptom immediately. But drugs don't treat the cause. The holistic vet would then address the cause through other modalities to ensure that the symptoms don't return. So sometimes, having a vet who practices both kind of medicine is ideal. Your pet can have his blood work and acupuncture in one visit. It's one stop shopping, which also saves you time and money on office visits. Think about it. If you had to get blood work at one vet and acupuncture at another, you'd have to pay for two office visits.
What questions? When you meet your holistic vet with your animal for the first time, notice what kinds of questions he or she asks. From my experience, a good holistic vet will spend more time with your pet on the first visit than a traditional vet would. Good holistic veterinarians will inquire about your pet's diet, home environment, ask about any odd or erratic behaviors and take it all into account when prescribing treatment for your animal. They are treating the cause, not just the underlying symptoms.
What size practice? Do you prefer a large veterinary office or a smaller, more intimate one? Is the staff caring, calm and courteous? Are they welcoming of you and your four-legged family member?
Emergency care. Are they set up for emergency care after hours? If not, is there a number to call that refers the pet and his/her owner to an emergency facility?
Who covers the practice when your doctor is unavailable or on vacation? Find out and meet that person, too.
And finally, get referrals to holistic vets from people you know. Just ask. Even if you just met them ten minutes ago at the dog park. Or ask a trusted groomer. In this day and age of the internet, information is just a click away... and so is a bad rap.
Keep your eyes and ears open. What you're looking for is out there. Good luck!
