How Holistic Pet Care Is Helping Animals Live Longer, Healthier Lives

RICHFIELD, Ohio (WJW) – Whether through acupuncture or antioxidants, veterinary care is enabling pets to have longer lifespans by combining alternative therapies with conventional approaches.

"I was genuinely astonished that you could provide such treatments for a dog," remarked Janet Menko. Her canine, Archie, is undergoing several therapies to address various health issues.

Earth grounding offers optimism to individuals battling cancer.

The 14-year-old mixed breed Pit Bull, who was adopted as a rescue and previously served as a therapy dog, is fighting against prostate cancer, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. Despite these challenges, he is remarkably thriving and continues to play in the yard with the energy of a young pup due to his ongoing treatment.

“He finds it very fast and doesn’t feel any pain; plus, he seems to enjoy it,” stated Menko.

These age-old treatments with a contemporary touch are offered at the Dancing Paws Animal Wellness Center located on W Streetsboro Road in Richfield, reflecting an expanding trend towards natural healthcare solutions.

Archie undergoes acupuncture with a laser rather than needles and also receives chiropractic adjustments along with various other treatments.

Local young bald eagles perish following their nest being destroyed by a storm.

Dr. Neal Sivula states that acupuncture by itself can address various health issues, noting "It can be utilized for managing pain, aiding with allergies, treating arthritis, neurological disorders, and issues related to different organs, such as kidneys and digestive system."

Alternative therapies encompass therapeutic massage for better blood flow, craniosacral therapy to regulate the nervous system, and chiropractic care.

"It’s similar to what happens with us humans; we check our spine, look for regular movement between the bones, identify problems, and then adjust accordingly," explained Dr. Sivula.

Other tips for increasing lifespan encompass: abundant physical activity; ensuring proper dental hygiene, even for indoor cats, and providing top-tier nutrition, ideally with proteins fit for humans.

"He mentioned that feeding once a day is not advisable. They believe that the bare minimum should be two times a day," he stated.

Bread sold at all Ohio Giant Eagle stores may include glass pieces: Recall

Natural supplements play a crucial role in maintaining general well-being.

We believe that fish oil and glucosamine are highly beneficial. Fish oil offers numerous advantages; it promotes healthy skin, aids in proper digestion, strengthens the immune system, enhances vision, supports brain health as one ages, and serves as a mild daily anti-inflammatory agent," he stated. "We also appreciate glucosamine because it helps prevent arthritis and spine-related problems.

One crucial piece of advice he offers is to remove harmful chemicals from your living space and particularly your garden to avoid cancer.

Additionally, there is fresh insight into how vaccinations can be managed to avoid any sensitivities in all pets and address issues for those that experienced adverse reactions before.

By vaccinating responsibly," explained Dr. Sivula, "we suggest conducting titers (blood tests) to confirm whether they require particular vaccinations. Additionally, we advise pet owners that if possible, spacing out their pets' vaccination appointments—administering them at different times rather than all at once—is a prudent approach. For instance, giving one vaccine today and returning after about a month for another.

Cedar Point modifies height restrictions for three of its attractions.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that these tips, when combined with conventional veterinary care, can assist pets in living longer lives, and further studies are presently being conducted.

However, Janet states that she already understands it has enhanced Archie’s quality of life.

Even with his gray snout and health problems, she mentions that after his treatments, he still zips around the yard doing zoomies and, more importantly, appears to be pain-free and joyful.

Oh, he certainly seems full of energy after we've been together," she remarked. "It's as though you wouldn't abandon a family member. I'm not going to desert my dog; he means everything to me, truly.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.

Share :