What is Holistic/ Alternative Veterinary Medicine?
Speaking in broad terms, any method or modality which is non-surgical and/ or non-medical (conventional medicine), which allows the body to heal itself or maintain itself in a healthy state is holistic/ alternative medicine. There is a large list of these methods, some of which are commonly used methods in human therapy. Chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, nutritional support and supplementation, homeopathic remedies, and Chinese/Western herbs are the most well known. Lesser known therapies include: color therapy; crystal therapy; magnet therapy; aura cleansing; and Bach flower therapy. Although these types of therapy have received recent popular attention, the history and origination of some of them go back to ancient cultures and civilizations.
The theory of why these different methods are successful is based on the principle that the body ( human or animal) has the ability to heal itself once outside influences and interference are neutralized ( bacteria, virus, injury, toxins, etc.) and harmony has been restored to the systems. Instead of treating symptoms as conventional medicine sometimes does, the body is treated as a whole entity to obtain healing at the source of the problem.

Which method is best for my pet?
This is a most difficult question to answer on a broad basis. It will require an intense investigation on the part of the owner as well as input from veterinarians who are knowledgeable in various methods of therapy. Quite often, more than one method of therapy may be employed for a favorable response. For example, a dog with degenerative arthritis may do well using acupuncture, massage therapy and chiropractic manipulation, as well as internal support of nutritional supplements and herbs.
It is important to understand that choosing to seek alternative veterinary care does not have to be in place of conventional medicine. Often times, both types of therapy can work in conjunction with each other. It is also important to understand that there is no one method which will take care of all problems.