Holistic Treatment for Digestive Health
Vomiting, diarrhoea, and weight loss can be uncomfortable for your pet and distressing for you. At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support both you and your pet every step of the way. With gentle, whole-body therapies, we aim to support digestive health, ease discomfort, and promote your pet’s overall wellbeing.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Rosie's Story
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
Why your pet’s gut health matters
Your pet’s gut plays a central role in their overall health — far beyond simply absorbing nutrients. A balanced gut microbiome supports countless vital functions, and when these microbial populations become disrupted, it can contribute to chronic issues such as digestive inflammation, skin problems, and metabolic imbalances.
The gut also communicates closely with the brain through the intricate “gut–brain axis,” which helps explain why gut health can influence your pet’s mood and behaviour.
Furthermore, around 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. This makes gut health essential for protecting your pet from infection and supporting overall wellness.
Nurturing your pet’s gut health is one of the most powerful ways to support their long-term wellbeing.
What we treat:
Please be advised that this list is not exhaustive. If your pet’s ailment has not been listed, it is still likely that we can help. Please do not hesitate to reach out!
Inflammation of the stomach lining, often causing vomiting
Inflammation of the colon, causing diarrhoea and discomfort
Difficulty passing stools or irregular bowel movements
Inability to control bowel movements
Chronic gut inflammation with varying symptoms
Severe colon enlargement causing chronic constipation
Impaired movement of food from the oesophagus to the stomach
Inflammation of the pancreas, liver, and intestine, often causing vomiting, diarrhoea, or discomfort
How we support your pet’s digestive health
Traditional Chinese Medicine
With Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), our qualified vets use herbs and acupuncture to support your pet’s digestive health in a gentle, natural way. The goals of these therapies are to support appropriate gut movements and secretions, help balance stomach acid, and aim to reduce vomiting and diarrhoea.
By restoring harmony in the digestive system, these treatments aim to support a healthy gut microbiome and reduce inflammation. Thereby helping your pet feel more comfortable and energetic. Whether through acupuncture or herbal remedies, our holistic approach works with your pet’s body to promote lasting digestive wellness.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
At Holistic Vet Care, we believe that food is one of the most powerful tools for supporting your pet’s digestive health. Processed foods, like kibble, can trigger inflammation and disrupt gut health. Whereas the right whole foods can nourish the digestive system and help balance the gut microbiome.
However, every pet is unique. By understanding how different foods affect your pet’s body, our goal is to tailor dietary recommendations to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis, stage of disease, and overall constitution. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
