When Medicine isn’t Always the Answer: The Missing Piece in Pet Care

Join us for a refreshing and practical conversation with holistic veterinarian Dr. Emily Roth!In this episode, Dr. Roth and I discuss the world of integrative veterinary medicine, sharing how treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care, Chinese herbs, and nutrition can revolutionise pet health, mobility, and comfort.Discover how Dr. Roth blends Eastern and Western therapies for large and small animals, busts myths about “natural” treatments, and explains why “holistic” doesn’t mean anti-medicine or anti-vaccine.Learn the science behind acupuncture, the real role of spinal adjustments, and why nail trims and weight management are game-changers for your pets. Dr. Roth shares her honest advice on quality of life, end-of-life care, and how pet owners can create happier, healthier lives for their animals.If you’re searching for ways to improve your pet’s comfort, get practical tips, or just want a fresh perspective on modern veterinary medicine, this episode is a must-listen!SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets new range here:https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Dr Emily:Website: https://www.healingtrailsholisticvet.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremily_honestvettalk/Podcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative: https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected] and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.-----------------------------------------------------------00:00 The Secret to Spinal Care: Nail Length00:37 Unpacking Holistic and Integrative Vet Med01:57 Balancing Large and Small Animal Care05:06 How Veterinary Acupuncture Actually Works08:09 The Benefits of Electroacupuncture11:21 Defining True Holistic Veterinary Care14:15 Extreme Perceptions vs. Evidence-Based Remedies17:01 When to Recommend Acupuncture for Pain20:08 The Limits of Acupuncture Treatment23:08 The Clinical Science Behind Acupuncture Points27:42 Spinal Adjustments and Chiropractic Care for Pets29:31 Species Differences in Animal Chiropractic32:52 Understanding the Chiropractic "Pop" Sound35:14 Managing Uncooperative and Difficult Patients38:45 Diagnosing Stiffness in Active Agility Dogs43:33 At-Home Tips for Spinal Comfort and Mobility49:54 The Importance of Early Nail Care and Desensitisation56:02 How Outdoor Mobility, Sunlight, and Cold Plunges Shape Care01:03:08 Assessing Quality of Life with Pet Owners01:06:28 Common Regrets During a Pet's Final Phase01:07:51 Re-framing Euthanasia as an Act of Love01:09:00 The Future of Integrative Veterinary Medicine01:11:00 One Crucial Message Before Your Next Vet Visit