The arthritis solution for dogs - Book Review - Review

Alternative Medicine Review, Sept, 2001 by Alan L. Miller

The Arthritis Solution for Dogs

Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Prima Pets

Roseville, CA; www.primalifestyles.com ISBN 0-7615-2622-6; soft cover; 224 pgs. $14.00

In the last 20 years the amount of interest in natural medicine has increased dramatically, to the point where the majority of Americans are utilizing some sort of "alternative" therapy for the enhancement of their health. An obvious extension of this interest is that humans would also want the best health care for their pets. Because of this increased interest, more books are being published on natural health for animals. The two books in this review are part of The Natural Vet Series, published by Prima Pet, a division of Prima Publishing.

In The Arthritis Solution for Dogs, Dr. Shawn Messonnier outlines his philosophy and offers a number of natural remedies to help dogs suffering from arthritic symptoms. He first stresses that the pet owner get an accurate diagnosis before embarking on any treatment protocol. To emphasize this, he provides valuable information on causes of lameness other than arthritis. Secondly, he uses non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications on a short-term basis only, unless all other treatment options are exhausted. And, he emphasizes that older dogs do not have to be sick dogs, and that they should be adequately treated so they can enjoy their old age without pain. He then offers information on conventional treatment of arthritis, so the pet owner is aware of their full array of treatment options. In the last half of the book, Messonnier presents his view on pet food and the advantages of a homemade diet, followed by numerous suggestions on natural therapies for the dog with arthritis, including fatty acids, chondroprotective supplements, Western and Chinese botanicals, acupuncture, magnets, and homeopathy. This is a wonderful eye-opening book for the dog owner, and provides a wealth of important information and treatment options. It would be an excellent addition to the library of the holistic veterinarian or the health-conscious dog owner.

The Allergy Solution for Dogs is written in the same style and format as the above book, but with an emphasis on the natural treatment of allergies, including the benefits of fatty acids, vitamins A and E, selenium, botanicals, acupuncture, and homeopathy. Again, a valuable book for any dog owner or holistic veterinarian.