by Angela Hickey | 2 min read January 2024
There are a wide range of therapies that can support the health of your pet alongside conventional veterinary care. Vets may offer these therapies in their practices or they can refer you to suitably qualified therapists who will report back to your vet.
Types of Complementary Therapies Available
Physiotherapy
Helps with joint problems, neurological/spinal conditions, pain and stiffness from old age, and rehabilitation after surgical procedures. Therapists use ‘hands on’ techniques such as manipulation, massage, specific stretches, etc. They may use Electrotherapy (Ultrasound, Laser, Pulsed Electromagnetic energy, etc.), as well as customised exercises and rehabilitation programs.
Hydrotherapy
Dogs are exercised in a heated pool so that the water bears their weight. It is a type of controlled exercise used for post-operative building up of muscle, tendons and ligaments, and for pets with joint problems, spinal problems, obesity etc.
Chiropractice
This involves hands on techniques and manipulation as well as attention to diet and nutrition to improve the overall health of your pet.
Behavioural Therapy
Supports and treats emotional and behavioural problems. Highly qualified animal behaviourists can work with you and your pet to resolve difficulties and modify your pet’s behaviour.
Acupuncture
‘Acupoints’ are areas rich in nerves and blood vessels which are found along lines of energy called meridians. Each point is associated with a different organ in the body. Points are stimulated by inserting very fine needles into the skin at these points, or by using laser light or pressure, to free up blockages.
Homeopathy
Natural remedies (i.e. from plants, animals and minerals) stimulate the body to heal itself. It works on the principle of ‘like heals like.’ The Homeopath will use a very detailed history of your pet including their likes and dislikes, physical and emotional issues, etc. to ensure that the remedy matches the patient.
Herbal medicine
Natural remedies from plants to treat many illnesses, avoiding the side effects of modern drugs.
How to Pick a Therapy
First, visit your vet for a full examination. They may suggest some further exams, or medication or surgery. Once you’ve gathered as much information as possible, this can be passed on to any therapist you may attend.
Your vet can help to recommend a therapy which will complement your pet’s treatment. They may be qualified to perform the therapy themselves or they may employ therapists to work on-site. They can also refer you to a suitably qualified therapist.
Check in advance of treatment to see if the therapist you are planning to attend will be covered under your insurance policy by filling out a pre-authorisation form. T&C’s can be found in our Pet Policy document here.
Allianz Pet Insurance covers complementary therapies provided by Veterinary Practices, or by suitably qualified members of Physiotherapy, Hydrotherapy, Pet Behaviour and Homeopathic Associations, following a vet’s instruction.
Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Standard acceptance criteria and policy conditions apply.
This guidance is for general information purposes only. Allianz accepts no responsibility or liability for any losses that may arise from any reliance upon the information contained in this guidance.
About the author
