Diet serves as the foundation of preventative and health-enhancing choices just as it is for humans, but not many regulations are in place for commercial pet foods. Reading the label, you often will see meat "by-products" or "meal" as primary ingredients, which is the leftover not-fit-for-human consumption meat. Plus it's highly processed with fillers and artificial ingredients.

For natural and organic pet food options with real meat as the first ingredient check out Clifton Natural Foods or CincinnatiPetFood.com. You also can find recipes to make your own homemade pet food using fresh meat and adding supplements, or check with Stephanie Hiller at A-Touch-of-Love.com.

Supplements can provide fresh and literally "green" nutrients. I give my cats Missing Link, a whole foods supplement,and they love it. Another easy way to get fresh greens into your cat's diet is to grow wheatgrass or cat grass. It's inexpensive, simple to grow and filled with nutrients.

A foundational belief of holistic healing is that the body wants to be balanced and healthy. Proper diet, fresh water, exercise and rest are the building blocks to good health for all creatures.

If your pet does become ill, the same philosophy applies. My motto is "least invasive to most invasive" when it comes to healthcare. Most natural therapies complement or support allopathic treatments. There are many "green," less invasive options to consider before drugs and surgery, which can be dangerous and expensive. With acute conditions, drugs can be an important option, but for chronic conditions, feeding and nurturing the body and immune system go a long way in healing and restoring health and vitality.

The Cincinnati area offers many options to explore for "green" living for your pet. Hiller and her associates at A Touch of Love offer natural modalities, including natural diet, healing touch, essential oils and massage, and they do sessions in your home or theirs. Head to A-Touch-of-Love.com for more information.

My favorite book resource is Natural Health for Dogs & Cats by Dr. Richard Pitcairn. I have used it for years. He even has a chapter on saying goodbye to your pet and how to support and calm them when that time comes. He recommends homeopathic and flower essences, which work with the energy and spirit of the animal during this time. One of those flower essences is called Bach Recue Remedy. This favorite natural product of mine should be in every person's (pet owner or not) medicine chest. Its calming effects on emotions and spirit work wonders when trauma, injury or even anxiety arise.

It's fascinating to me that "green" healing products and practices are now called "alternative" therapies when these natural methods have been used throughout history. But it's awesome to have so many options. Going or adding "green" whenever possible can be a good way to go, but be sure to check with your veterinarian before making any changes! For a local holistic veterinarian, contact the Veterinary Wellness Center.

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