Holistic Canine Care Tips for Dog Owners

When considering the overall health and wellness of your dog, you may be interested in learning more about holistic canine care.

Many dog owners incorporate holistic practices into their dog’s routines to prevent illness and take a proactive approach to their health. Holistic health includes mental stimulation, proper nutrition, and emotional support. 

Let’s break down a few holistic canine care tips you can easily add to your dog’s daily life to make small but impactful improvements.  

Practicing Holistic Canine Care at Home

So, what exactly is holistic pet care? This preventative approach to health and wellness entails alternative treatments to medicine to support the optimal function of your dog. Holistic care treats the mind, body, and spirit to address ailments and prevent illness. 

Holistic care includes massage therapy, exercise, and, most importantly, healthy nutrition. Many dog owners use these strategies to treat ailments and even prevent illness. 

Here are a few simple tips for adding holistic therapies to your dog’s life.

1. Consult your veterinarian 

While most holistic approaches to health are considered ‘natural,’ we still recommend discussing your plans with your dog’s veterinarian. They will be able to provide insight into what techniques and therapies may benefit your pup in his current condition, as well as steps you can take to improve joint mobility, mood, and much more. 

2. Start slow

Generally speaking, holistic therapies are safe but should be introduced slowly to your dog, particularly if they have any type of health condition. Make soft introductions to new therapies, like massage therapy, to see how your dog reacts. Monitor their behavior for a few weeks before adding any more new therapies.

3. Emphasize oral health 

Some dog owners overlook their pet’s teeth as part of their health and wellness routine, which can be detrimental. Poor dental hygiene can result in various health issues, including gingivitis, oral pain, and even organ damage. Aside from an annual dental exam, be sure to brush your dog’s teeth at home and provide dog cleaning toys and chews to help their teeth sparkle.

4. Prioritize nutrition

If you’re going to make any adjustments to your dog’s lifestyle, proper nutrition is the most powerful improvement you can make. Preventative nutrition supports a dog’s immune system, energy levels, and weight management. When your dog eats a well-balanced diet, their gut health will improve, along with their skin and coat, immunity, and more. Diet can prevent disease and have a positive impact on the gut microbiome, which controls brain function, digestion, and general health. 

Get Joy’s fresh meal plans offer natural, wholesome dog food for a balanced, health-focused diet. You can choose from turkey, beef, lamb, or chicken, depending on the proteins your dog loves. 

The Benefits of Holistic Canine Health Care

Many veterinarians take a two-faceted approach to treating animals — both traditional medicine and holistic care, particularly when used together, can improve a dog’s overall physical and mental health for the short and long term. 

When dog owners prioritize holistic therapies, including diet, canine oral care, physical activity, and others on this list, they will begin to see small shifts in their dog’s behavior and overall health. Some dogs have a significant boost in energy, wanting to go on longer walks or spend more time at the dog park, while others are less lethargic and prone to illness. 

Give Your Dog the Gift of Health with Get Joy

A diet of fresh, whole foods and regular exercise are two of the most significant ways to improve your dog’s quality of life. Healthy eating and consistent physical activity help to prevent diseases, weight gain, and many other health conditions. 

Get Joy is committed to providing fresh, nutritious meals for your canine companion. Get started with our meal plans today!