Pets are often considered beloved members of the family, offering companionship, joy, and unconditional love. Beyond their emotional benefits, pets also provide numerous health advantages to their owners, including reduced stress, increased physical activity, and improved mental health. However, ensuring that our pets live long and healthy lives requires thoughtful care, especially when it comes to nutrition and medical decisions.
Health Benefits of Pet Companionship
1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety: The presence of a pet can have a calming effect, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol. Petting a dog or cat, for instance, releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and bonding.
2. Encouraging Physical Activity: Dog owners, in particular, benefit from increased physical activity through regular walks and playtime. This not only helps the dog stay fit but also encourages the owner to maintain an active lifestyle, which can contribute to better overall health.
3. Enhancing Mental Health: Pets can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression. The routine of caring for a pet provides a sense of purpose and structure, which can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with mental health challenges.
4. Strengthening the Immune System: Growing up with pets can help strengthen children’s immune systems, reducing their risk of developing allergies and asthma. Regular exposure to pets introduces a variety of bacteria that can help build a more resilient immune system.
Promoting Long and Healthy Lives for Pets
While pets bring significant health benefits to their owners, it’s crucial to prioritize their well-being to ensure they live long, healthy lives. Traditional veterinary care often includes regular checkups, vaccinations, and commercially prepared pet food, but these practices may not always lead to optimal health. Based on personal experience, alternative approaches to pet care can have remarkable outcomes.
1. Nutrition is Key:
Homemade Food: One of the most effective ways to ensure your pet’s health is by preparing their food at home. Commercial pet foods, especially kibble, can be highly processed and may contain low-quality ingredients that do not meet the nutritional needs of your pet. By making your pet’s food, you can control the quality of ingredients, ensuring they receive balanced meals rich in nutrients.
We put chicken, mixed veggies, kidney beans, pumpkin, and sometimes some apple into a crock pot. We then put it into small containers and freeze and thaw as we need it.
Avoid Harmful Additives: Many commercial treats contain preservatives, artificial colors, and other additives that may harm your pet’s health over time. Opt for natural treats or consider making your own.
2. Rethink Veterinary Care:
Homeopathy for Ailments: Instead of relying solely on conventional veterinary medicine, consider treating your pets with homeopathy. Homeopathic remedies can be incredibly effective in addressing various health issues without the side effects often associated with pharmaceutical treatments. This approach allows for a more holistic treatment that considers the pet's overall well-being.
Arnica and Ledum are two remedies that are great to have on hand. Arnica is great for pain and inflammation while Ledum is a must for tick and insect bites.
Vaccinations: While vaccinations are standard practice in traditional veterinary care, some pet owners find that avoiding or minimizing vaccinations can lead to healthier pets. Vaccines can sometimes lead to adverse reactions or long-term health issues. Consulting with a holistic veterinarian can help you make informed decisions about your pet’s vaccination needs.
3. Minimal Vet Visits: Routine vet visits and checkups might not always be necessary, especially if your pet is in good health. Instead, focus on preventive care at home, such as regular grooming, dental care, and a healthy diet. By closely monitoring your pet’s health, you can address any issues early with natural treatments.
Personal Experience: A Testament to Alternative Care
Our experience with our dogs has demonstrated the significant impact that diet and alternative care can have on longevity and quality of life. Our first two dogs, despite receiving regular vet care, vaccinations, and a commercial diet, passed away prematurely. In contrast, our current two dogs, who have never been vaccinated, rarely see the vet, and are fed homemade food, are thriving at the ages of 15 and 12. When they do experience ailments, we treat them with homeopathy, which has proven to be incredibly effective.
Treating Pets as Family
Pets are not just animals; they are integral members of the family who deserve the same level of care and attention as any other family member. By taking their health into our own hands and making informed decisions about their care, we can help our pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives. After all, the love and companionship they provide are priceless, and they deserve nothing less than the best care we can offer.
Show Them the Love They Show You
Caring for pets goes beyond just fulfilling their basic needs. It involves making thoughtful decisions about their nutrition, health care, and overall well-being. By prioritizing their health through proper nutrition, considering alternative treatments like homeopathy, and rethinking traditional veterinary practices, we can help our pets live long, healthy lives. After all, pets give us so much, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they are treated with the same love and care they show us every day.