The Ultimate Pet Health Guide: Breakthrough Nutrition and Integrative Care for Dogs and Cats

As a holistic veterinarian and scientist, Dr. Gary Richter helps dog and cat owners to navigate the thicket of treatment options and separate the fact from the fiction. He wants us to use what actually works, not just what Western science or alternative medicine say "should" work. This multifaceted approach to health is known as integrative medicine.

Dr. Richter examines traditional medicine from many cultures alongside modern medical techniques, describing the best of complementary care and the best of conventional veterinary medicine. Every treatment he recommends has the backing of scientific research or years of successful outcomes in his clinical practice. After explaining the treatment, he offers specific recommendations for an integrative approach to common diseases, including allergies, skin conditions, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

A holistic approach to health includes nutrition, as it sets up the foundation for your pet’s health. Dr. Richter cuts through the hype in the pet-food world and explains how to choose the best commercial foods and supplements, and even includes both raw and cooked dog- and cat-food recipes for general diet as well as to treat specific needs. He also explains how we can use the right foods and supplements to "hack" the body’s processes, including the immune system.

Dr. Gary Richter graduated with honors from the University of Florida with his master’s and doctorate degrees in veterinary medicine. Since 2002, he has been the owner and medical director of Montclair Veterinary Hospital and launched Holistic Veterinary Care in 2009. He is certified in veterinary acupuncture as well as chiropractic, and has published numerous articles on the benefits of complementary and integrative health-care options for pets. Dr. Richter and his two animal hospitals have received more than 30 local and national awards, including Best Veterinary Hospital, Best Veterinarian, Best Canine Therapy Facility, and Best Alternative Medicine Provider. Petplan named Dr. Richter one of the top 10 veterinarians in the United States in 2011, and Montclair Veterinary Hospital was named one of the top 10 veterinary hospitals in 2013. Website: HolisticVetCare.com