In today's fast-paced world, we’re surrounded by pollutants they’re ubiquitous in the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink. From overly processed foods, chemical-laden parasite control products to frequent medications and vaccines. These combined factors contribute to what's known as the body burden, or the accumulation of toxins in the body over time.
I’m passionate about the naturopathic approach to healthcare in contrast to an Allopathic one. However, ideally to integrate both paradigms with strategy to promote health is what I hope is the future.
There’s an irony in that an exclusively Allopathic approach can contribute to this burden by relying only on pharmaceuticals, which target the symptoms of an illness rather than the root cause.
Over time, these substances likes heavy metals from long-term / chronic use of medication or over use of vaccinations combined with overly processed ‘nutrient deficient’ foods accumulate in the liver, kidneys, fat cells, and even in the brain, interfering with natural detoxification, hormonal balance, and immune system function.
However, some conventional solutions like Antibiotics and Steroids, and pain killers can play a role strategically in the instance of an acute condition, emergency surgery, severe infection, or an injury.
So, for me it’s about respecting that all living creatures have a limit to their ‘toxic load’ or body burden, and how an integrated approach to pet health using naturopathic solutions could reduce it.
When the ‘Root-Cause’ is the focus in identifying and addressing the why, not just the what!
Thinking about how a fresh whole-food diet, natural targeted supplements, herbs, physical therapies, even homeopathy can address the cause of disease by eliminating toxins whilst respecting the body’s innate ability to heal.
The allopathic approach often only targets symptoms, not systems, or the holistic whole. It’s not pre-disposed to addressing why the body could be out of balance in the first place.
Whereas naturopathic health care embraces the idea that the body is intelligent and has an inherent ability to return to homeostasis, a balanced state of health, when given the right support.
You are what you eat, and so is your dog! So, by combining fresh, species-appropriate diets like raw or gently cooked meals that are rich in enzymes, amino acids, and whole food nutrients, it supports the microbiome, and fuels energy at a cellular level.
Whereas human stress has massive implications to our pets. A recent study from Belfast University in 2019 revealed that when dogs smell cortisol / stress on our breath, it makes them pessimistic.
Sometimes the best outcomes involve a hybrid model: using conventional medicine when truly necessary, but supporting the body long-term through natural, preventative approaches. Integrative veterinary medicine combines the strengths of both worlds.
A dog with arthritis might benefit from a short course of NSAIDs, while also receiving acupuncture, herbal support, broad-spectrum Omega-3 and a switch to a fresh whole-food diet.
Instead of yearly vaccine boosters, antibody Titre Testing can determine whether immunity is still present, reducing unnecessary exposure, in line with the latest science form the World Small Animal Association.
A cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to mean just chemo when natural immune support, medicinal mushrooms, and detoxification can be powerful allies.
Health is not just the absence of disease, health is vitality. It’s clear eyes, shiny coats, strong digestion, playful energy, and emotional balance. A dog with a minimal body burden, thriving on whole foods, supported by mindful medicine, and living in a low-toxin environment is more likely to live a long, vibrant, and joyful life.
If you’d like help developing a holistic wellness plan for your dog or finding a trusted integrative vet, let me know, I can help you get started!
Anna Webb – as a Canine Nutrition and Behaviour expert, Anna combines her psychology degree, with study at the College of Integrated Veterinary Therapies (CIVT) and over 20 years of experience. Host of the award-nominated A DOG’S LIFE podcast, she lives in London and is owned by Prudence, a Miniature Bull Terrier, and Mr Binks, a re-homed English Toy Terrier.
