Therapeutic Interventions

Fecal Transplant is the transfer of stool from a healthy donor dog into a recipient’s gut to restore beneficial bacteria and support digestive health. It’s used for chronic diarrhea, gut imbalances, and some immune-related conditions. This can be done via veterinary-administered enemas, capsules made from freeze-dried donor stool, or oral suspensions available through specialized veterinary providers.

Microbiome Testing analyzes the bacteria in a dog’s gut to assess digestive health, immune function, and potential imbalances. Testing kits are available through veterinary clinics and direct-to-consumer labs, with results used to guide diet changes and probiotic use.

Massage Therapy is a hands-on technique that relieves muscle tension, improves circulation, and supports joint mobility. It’s offered by certified canine massage therapists, rehabilitation centers, and some veterinarians specializing in physical therapy.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing at the cellular level. It’s available through veterinary rehab clinics, in-home devices, and wearable PEMF therapy pads.

Stem Cell Therapy uses a dog’s own stem cells to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and improve joint health. Veterinarians collect fat tissue, process the stem cells, and inject them back into the affected area. It’s primarily offered at specialty veterinary hospitals and regenerative medicine clinics.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment made by drawing a small amount of a dog’s blood and processing it to concentrate the platelets, which are cells that release natural healing factors. When injected back into injured tissues, PRP can help reduce inflammation, support repair of joints, ligaments, or wounds, and may lessen reliance on pharmaceuticals.

Phenobarbital (Anticonvulsant) is one of the most commonly used seizure medications in dogs, working by calming excessive brain activity. It requires regular veterinary monitoring due to potential liver side effects, and some holistic practitioners prefer alternative anticonvulsants when possible.

Keppra/ Levetiracetam (Anticonvulsant) is a seizure medication with fewer side effects on the liver and kidneys than Phenobarbital, making it a preferred option for some dogs. It is available by veterinary prescription but may need to be given multiple times a day.

Fluconazole (Antifungal) is an oral antifungal medication used for systemic fungal infections like Valley Fever and yeast-related skin issues. It is available by prescription, though long-term use can affect liver function and requires monitoring.

Cephalexin (Antibiotic) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, particularly skin, urinary, and respiratory conditions. It is widely prescribed, though some holistic veterinarians caution against overuse due to antibiotic resistance concerns.

Clindamycin (Antibiotic) is an antibiotic often used for dental infections, wounds, and deep skin abscesses. While effective, it can cause gastrointestinal upset, and holistic approaches may favor probiotics to support gut health during treatment.

Cytopoint/ Lokivetmab (Injectable Antibody Therapy) is a biologic injection that blocks itch-related proteins in dogs with allergies, providing relief for 4-8 weeks. It is administered by veterinarians and considered a safer alternative to steroids, though some holistic vets question long-term immune system effects.

Apoquel/ Oclacitinib (JAK Inhibitor) is an oral medication that reduces inflammation and itching in allergic dogs. While highly effective, some holistic veterinarians raise concerns about its immune-modulating effects and prefer long-term dietary and environmental allergy management.

Doxycycline (Antibiotic) is commonly prescribed for tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis, as well as respiratory infections. Some holistic vets prefer alternative treatments or immune support for mild cases.

Elbow Dysplasia Surgery is performed to correct abnormal joint development in the elbow, which can cause pain and lameness. Surgery options include arthroscopy or corrective osteotomies, typically performed by veterinary orthopedic specialists.

FHO Surgery (Femoral Head Ostectomy) removes the head and neck of the femur (thigh bone) to eliminate bone-on-bone contact in the hip joint, reducing pain from hip dysplasia, trauma, or severe arthritis. Instead of a traditional ball-and-socket joint, the body forms a “false joint” made of scar tissue and muscle to support movement. This surgery is most effective in small to medium-sized dogs, though larger dogs may need intensive physical therapy for optimal function.

TPLO Surgery (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) is a procedure where the tibia (shin bone) is surgically cut, rotated, and stabilized with a metal plate to shift how force moves through the knee, reducing reliance on the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) for stability. This is a major reconstructive surgery, commonly recommended for large, active dogs after a CCL tear (similar to an ACL tear in humans). While TPLO often promotes healing alongside strict kennel rest, conservative management—such as physical therapy, braces, weight management, and joint supplements—can be a preferable alternative, especially since dogs often tear the CCL in the opposite hind leg within a year of surgery.

Cold Laser Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy, LLLT) uses light energy to reduce inflammation and promote healing in dogs with arthritis, injuries, or post-surgical recovery. It is available at veterinary rehab centers and is popular among both conventional and holistic vets.

Hydrotherapy is a form of water-based physical therapy that helps dogs build strength and mobility without putting stress on their joints. It is commonly used for rehabilitation after surgery, arthritis management, and neurological conditions, and is available through specialized rehab clinics.

Amantadine (Pain Medication) is used to manage chronic pain, particularly arthritis and nerve-related discomfort. It is often prescribed alongside other pain medications, but its effectiveness in dogs is still being studied.

Gabapentin (Neuropathic Pain Medication) is used for nerve pain, arthritis relief, and anxiety. While widely prescribed, some holistic veterinarians believe its sedative effects can be too strong for daily use and prefer natural pain management strategies.

NSAIDs: Carprofen, Meloxicam, Deracoxib, Firocoxib (Pain Medications) are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used for pain relief from arthritis, injuries, and post-surgical recovery. While effective, they can impact liver and kidney function, leading holistic veterinarians to favor joint supplements and natural anti-inflammatories for long-term use.

Insulin Therapy is used to regulate blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes, typically through daily injections. It is essential for diabetic dogs, but holistic vets often recommend dietary management and lifestyle adjustments alongside insulin treatment.

Levothyroxine/ Thyro-Tabs/ Soloxine/ ThyroKare (Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy) is a synthetic form of thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism in dogs. It restores normal metabolism, energy levels, and coat health. This medication is given daily and requires regular bloodwork to monitor thyroid function.

Vitamin B12 Injections (Cobalamin Supplementation) restore B12 levels in dogs with malabsorption issues, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or chronic GI disease. Some dogs need B12 long-term, while others receive it temporarily after illness or gut imbalance. It is given as a subcutaneous injection, typically weekly at first, then tapering to monthly if ongoing support is needed. Available through veterinarians, who can administer injections or provide vials and syringes for at-home use.

Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (Prescription-Strength Enzymes) is a lifelong treatment for dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), where the pancreas fails to produce digestive enzymes. Prescription powders like Viokase-V, PancrePlus, or PanaKare are mixed with every meal to break down fats, proteins, and carbs for proper nutrient absorption. These are available only through veterinarians and must be dosed precisely to prevent malnutrition.

Gastropexy (Surgical Procedure) is a one-time preventative surgery that tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent twisting in gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or “bloat”). It is performed electively in high-risk breeds (such as Great Danes) or as an emergency procedure if GDV occurs. This surgery is done by veterinary surgeons and specialty clinics.

Sucralfate (Carafate) (Coating Agent) is a temporary medication that coats the stomach lining to heal ulcers, acid reflux, or GI irritation. It is given as a dissolved tablet or liquid for 5-10 days or longer if needed. It must be prescribed by a veterinarian and is filled at pet pharmacies.

Omeprazole/ Prilosec (Proton Pump Inhibitor) reduces stomach acid and treats acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and gastritis. It is given as a daily oral pill and can be temporary or long-term, depending on the condition. While the human version is over-the-counter, veterinarians provide prescription-strength dosages for dogs. Some holistic vets prefer short-term use alongside diet changes and gut-supportive supplements.

Cerenia/ Maropitant (Antiemetic) prevents nausea and vomiting due to motion sickness, chemotherapy, post-surgical recovery, and chronic GI disease. It is given as an injection by a veterinarian or as a once-daily oral tablet for 1-4 days or longer if needed. It is only available by veterinary prescription.

Prednisone/ Prednisolone (Steroid) reduces inflammation, immune system overactivity, and allergic reactions. It is given as a daily oral tablet, with dosages typically tapered over time. Long-term use can cause side effects, so some holistic vets recommend alternative anti-inflammatory strategies when possible. It is available by veterinary prescription through pet pharmacies.

Praziquantel/ Droncit, Drontal Plus (Dewormer) kills tapeworms and is given as a one-time oral tablet or injection. Available through veterinarians, prescription pet pharmacies, and in over-the-counter broad-spectrum dewormers.

Fenbendazole/ Panacur (Dewormer) treats roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and Giardia. It is given as a flavored liquid, powder, or tablet for 3-5 days, sometimes longer for Giardia. It is available by veterinary prescription or over-the-counter in some formulations.

Ponazuril (Marquis Paste) (Antiprotozoal) is used off-label to treat Coccidia, a microscopic parasite that causes diarrhea in puppies and immunocompromised dogs. It is given orally as a paste for 1-3 days and is available through veterinarians and equine supply stores.

Tylosin/ Tylan Powder (Antibiotic) is a macrolide antibiotic approved for livestock but used off-label in dogs to manage chronic diarrhea and colitis, particularly antibiotic-responsive diarrhea (ARD). Its exact mechanism in gut health isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to have anti-inflammatory and microbiome-modulating effects rather than acting purely as an antibiotic. It is typically given as a daily powder mixed with food and can be used short-term or long-term, depending on the case. Available by veterinary prescription or through farm supply stores.

Metronidazole (Antibiotic/ Antiprotozoal) is a widely prescribed but off-label antibiotic for Giardia, bacterial infections, and inflammatory diarrhea in dogs. Though not FDA-approved for veterinary use, it is commonly used for short-term GI issues. Long-term use is debated due to gut microbiome disruption, antibiotic resistance, and potential neurological side effects. Available only by veterinary prescription.

Acupuncture is a treatment that uses carefully selected points on the body to communicate with the nervous system. These points are chosen because they are especially good at sending signals through nerves and connective tissue. Stimulating them can affect how the brain processes pain, muscle tension, and inflammation. For this reason, acupuncture is often used as a supportive therapy alongside other veterinary care.

An elimination diet trial for dogs systematically removes potential allergens from their diet, followed by careful reintroduction of ingredients. It identifies specific dietary triggers of allergies or sensitivities, aiding in precise dietary management to improve your dog's health and comfort.

Food sensitivity testing refers to a variety of diagnostic tools used to evaluate whether a dog may be reacting negatively to specific ingredients in their diet. These tests often measure antibodies or immune markers in blood or saliva samples, and may provide clues about food exposures or possible sensitivities. However, results are not considered definitive and should be interpreted in the context of clinical signs and veterinary guidance.

Hydrolyzed dog foods are prescription diets in which the protein has been chemically broken down into smaller components, called peptides or free amino acids. This process, called hydrolysis, reduces the chances that the immune system will recognize these proteins as allergens. Hydrolyzed diets are commonly used to help manage suspected food allergies, chronic digestive issues, or inflammatory conditions like IBD.