How Integrative Veterinary Medicine Can Create Better Mental Health Outcomes

As a holistic vet, I employ a whole-pet approach to therapy treatments for any disease, condition, or discomfort my patients may be experiencing. There are many factors to take into consideration, so I partner with pet parents to determine the type of environment the patient lives in and to learn more about their daily lifestyle. This allows me to gain a thorough understanding of the best-customized treatment plan possible for essential long-term pet care. 

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We must become active advocates for our pets.

Animal mental health is a real issue. In fact, there is often a direct correlation with human mental health. As realistic as anxiety and stress can be in our everyday lives, our pets react to factors in the same environment and often have similar experiences and outcomes. I believe in the power of zoobiquity, which uncovers innovative solutions to the mental and physical challenges animals experience as a result of distress, social change, and other environmental factors. Just like us, our pets are sensitive to energy shifts, making them vulnerable to emotional anxiety, stress, and depression.

We must become active advocates for our pets, leading with compassion and seeking further understanding. It is important to schedule regular visits with medical providers and mental health specialists, as needed. Our pets can also benefit from custom strategies for physical, mental, and emotional health balance and optimization. If you are experiencing mental health challenges, you should also have your pet examined as they are a part of your family and an extension of you. As a result, they can be exposed to the same environmental stressors. A theme of unity between your practitioner and your veterinarian is vital in order to determine whether additional coping mechanisms or treatment is needed for your pet. In the meantime, ensure your pet is getting an herb-rich diet, proper exercise, and rest.

For more information and tips on sustaining
your pet’s mental health, please check out my
Naturopawthic Courses on Herbs for Grief.

Alexia Tsakiris