Holistic medicine is an umbrella-term that describes a patient-centered treatment approach, including body, mind and spirit. Holistic medicine focuses on finding and addressing the root cause of issues – not just bandaging the symptoms. Different therapies and modalities are used to tap into the body’s innate healing power, support the immune system, and promote health. Integrative medicine, homeopathic medicine, ayurvedic medicine, traditional medicine, and naturopathic medicine are all forms of holistic medicine.
Integrative medicine is a medical specialty that merges both traditional therapies with conventional medicine to provide the best possible patient-centered care. Integrative medicine considers the entire patient and all their body systems.
I spent several years in general practice before opening Integrative Veterinary Care. During that time, I always felt rushed through appointments, only getting “half the story” from my clients. Despite wanting to help my patients, I felt like I was just pushing disease around in circles. It was not a very fulfilling practice, and I knew I needed to make a change. In 2019, I founded Integrative Veterinary Care, where I could take my time, get the full story, and draw from all types of medicine to get results for my patients.
As an integrative veterinarian, I use the best of both worlds (traditional therapies and conventional medicine) to provide patient-focused medicine. Each patient is unique, and not every therapy or option will be the “right” fit for every patient. I have therapies such as acupuncture, medical manipulation (chiropractic), nutritional therapy, photobiomodulation therapy, pulsed electromagnetic field treatments, regenerative therapies, rehabilitation/physical therapy, traditional Chinese herbal medicine, and Western herbal medicine available for patients, depending on their individual needs.
In addition to conventional laboratory testing, Integrative Veterinary Care also offers an expanded profile of diagnostics to help uncover root causes of disease and illness, including allergy testing, applied kinesiology, and microbiome testing.
As a mobile (house-call) practice, I get to see my patients in their home environment. This removes the stress and fear that can be associated with a vet hospital visit. It also allows me to assess the family hierarchy and “pack dynamic” of each patient, which is very helpful for both medical and behavioral issues.
Integrative Veterinary Care works with primary veterinarians as well as local specialists, forming a cohesive team that is focused on patient care. We can also provide referrals to conventional specialists (such as surgeons and oncologists) in the area to complement each treatment plan.
The Integrative Veterinary Care logo is the embodiment of this practice style – we put the pieces together to see the whole patient. Featured in the logo are four of my own animals who were instrumental teachers in my integrative medicine journey. I have seen first hand how integrative medicine can heal, and I look forward to sharing this knowledge with your family and pets!