DELRAY BEACH, Fla. – For the last few years, Alice Hughes' aging giant schnauzer named Andre has struggled with neurological problems that she was told were insurmountable.
"Three times vets said 'This is it'. He couldn't walk anymore, he was depressed, lethargic, wouldn't eat, wouldn't drink. They said 'He's too old, he's got long legs and severe arthritis, you have to put him down.'" she said.
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Instead, Hughes brought Andre to Dr. Nancy Keller, a veterinarian with special training in holistic animal care.
"When I first started, everybody called me the last resort," Keller said. "Now people have seen that bringing their animals up holistically from the beginning is going to give them the best life they can."
Holistic veterinary care includes multiple modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutritional therapy, behavior modification and chiropractic care.
"Every animal gets an adjustment but this isn't like what people get," said Keller. "This is much more gentle, there's not tugging or pulling on the neck or back."
As with human holistic care, Keller said her practice goes beyond the body.
"It's about the whole mind-spirit connection. It's about giving the animals the instruments and time to heal themselves," she said.
Keller's clients give her credit for helping their pets live longer and happier lives.
"She's given Andre another year on life, more than I ever hoped for, so every day is special," said Hughes.
To reach Keller call: 561-547-8277