According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, more than 63 percent of U.S. households have pets; this includes some 73 million dogs and 90 million cats. Americans spend a fortune on their pets, almost $40 billion in 2006 alone, of which more than $9 billion was for veterinary care.

And just how much of that veterinary care was really necessary?

In recent years, natural health care has gained popularity for many reasons, the high cost of medical care and the question of the necessity and effectiveness of many of the treatments and medications being just a couple. So why aren’t more people looking into this venture for their beloved pets? Perhaps because it is so highly discouraged by veterinarians?

There are many things you can do for you pets at home to care for their health from the right diet, and by that I don’t mean the high priced vet recommended commercial foods filled with by products, fillers and chemicals, to herbs, to acupressure, just to name a few alternatives.

And what about the yearly vaccinations that are recommended by your vet, are all of them really necessary? Could they be contributing to your pet’s ill health?

Do you realize that there are many over the counter medications that we use everyday that your pets can also use to easily, quickly and effectively take care of some illnesses? Medications like Benedyl or Pepto-Bismol?

Now I’m not knocking veterinarian medicine or modern medicine, it definitely has its place and is necessary; sometimes, but not as much as we are led to believe.

If your dog has arthritis your vet would most likely prescribe a routine of NSAIDs, Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatories, and while these may help with the symptoms, they may also be opening your pet up to other problems, damaging their organs and making them susceptible to more serious problems, like cancer.

Stephen F. Sundlof, D.V.M., Ph.D., Director of the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) has this to say about NSAIDs;

“NSAIDs carry a risk of side effects, or adverse reactions. Most adverse reactions are mild, but some may be serious, especially if the drugs are not used according to labeled directions. Some reactions result in permanent damage or even death.

“It’s important for pet owners to be aware of the risks and benefits of all drugs, including NSAIDs, so that they can make informed decisions about their pets’ health care,” says Sundlof. “Owners who give their dog NSAIDs need to know the side effects to watch for that indicate their pet needs medical attention.”

The most common side effects from NSAIDs include vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, lethargy, and diarrhea. Serious side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, perforations, kidney damage, and liver problems.”

Do you know that you can effectively treat canine arthritis at home? The addition of supplements such as glucosomine and omega-3 fatty acids are extremely helpful, vitamins such as C and E and common aspirin are all beneficial. Massage and acupressure work and of course getting rid of any extra pounds you pooch is carrying is definitely instrumental. These are just a few ‘prescriptions’ for an arthritic canine and none of them will be harmful and it’s extremely doubtful that you will ever hear your vet telling you about them.

So, for your pet’s health, think about going natural! You could be prolonging and saving their life.

You can find out more natural remedies for arthritis and many other health problems, as well as answers to many natural health questions here.