Let’s explore the differences between Holistic, Science-Based and Evidence-Based approaches.
A holistic approach looks at the whole being—body, mind, spirit, environment, and lifestyle. Everything is connected. Holistic care includes food therapy, herbs, acupuncture, massage, and energy work (like Reiki). Many of these practices come from ancient systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCVM in animals), Ayurveda, and Indigenous knowledge. The goal is to support balance, harmony, and long-term wellness—not just treat symptoms.
A science-based approach focuses on what has been tested and proven effective through research and clinical studies. It includes conventional medicine, pharmaceuticals, surgeries, and other treatments that are backed by science and standardised testing. The goal is to provide reliable, effective care—especially when things are acute or critical.
An evidence-based approach includes scientific research, but also values clinical experience—what actually works in practice—and individual context—the unique needs, lifestyle, and preferences of the individual dog and their human. Evidence-based care makes space for real-world experience and clinical judgement, even when there isn’t a solid scientific proof yet.
Holistic care is sometimes seen as less credible or “unscientific.” But that’s not always true. Many holistic modalities can be evidence-based and have scientific support, especially when used appropriately and by qualified professionals. For examples, herbs with clinical studies, acupuncture with real-life results, and minimally processed, whole foods diet can make real difference to dogs’ health.
So, can holistic and science-, evidence-based approaches co-exist? Yes—and they should.
Together, they offer a fuller picture. One nurtures long-term wellbeing, the other can offer effective action when the body needs help. It’s not about choosing one or the other—it’s about using both mindfully, based on what your dog needs in the moment. The key is discernment—the ability to combine intuition, experience, and science to give our dogs the best of both worlds.
In my 9 years as Bowie’s guardian, I’ve drawn from both holistic and science-, evidence-based care—depending on what he needed at the time. There were moments when natural remedies and gentle therapies supported his body and spirit beautifully. And there were other times when conventional medicine and quick intervention were absolutely necessary.
As pet parents today, we’re constantly surrounded by noise—new information, conflicting opinions, and pressure to do the “right” thing. But the truth is: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every dog is different. What matters is finding what works for your dog, in your life, and being mindful and staying open-minded along the way. For me, it’s not about blindly choosing natural remedies or turning away from modern medicine—it’s about looking at the bigger picture and finding the right balance.
Below, I’ll be sharing what’s worked for us in a simple Q&A format. I’ll also be giving some examples from my own experience, because sometimes when you’ve personally felt the benefits yourself, it becomes easier to understand and connect with the idea. Of course, what works for us may not be exactly what works for you—and that’s okay. Every dog, every person, every situation is unique. You may also disagree with me—and that’s okay too! My hope is that this inspires you to approach your own journey with curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to explore what feels right for you and your dog.
Don’t miss our related post:
Holistic Health for Dogs is More Than What’s in Their Bowl
About Bowie
Bowie turned 9 years old in March 2025. He’s a male, neutered American Labrador. His weight typically stays between 28.5kg to 29.5kg. He’s lean, active, has a great appetite, and (fingers and paws crossed!) has no specific allergies, dietary needs, or health issues. He, however, has started to show some signs of aging, such as greying fur, a slight slowdown in energy, lipomas, mildly cloudy eyes (nuclear sclerosis), and a little wear and tear on his teeth. But overall, he’s in great health and doing beautifully for a senior dog!
Note: I am not a veterinarian. The information shared here is based on our personal experience and what has worked for us. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness. Every dog is different, so please consult with your veterinarian to determine the best care for your dog’s individual needs.
Diet & Nutrition
- What’s Bowie’s current diet?
Bowie is on a whole foods diet—mainly raw with occasional gently cooked meals. When I cook his food, it’s usually just lightly cooked on the stove until done, or sometimes just seared on the outside to warm it up while keeping the inside raw. He also has freeze-dried and air-dried commercial foods as part of his rotational diet or used as toppers. - How long has he been on this diet?
For over 8 years. - Has he ever had kibble?
Yes. Bowie was on a kibble diet as a puppy, but had recurring digestive issues like diarrheas (explosive ones!), which led to multiple vet visits and rounds of antibiotics and medications. A vet prescription kibble didn’t help. Things only improved when I transitioned him to a whole foods diet. We started with freeze-dried (ie. Frontier Pets) paired with DIY cooked meals as toppers, and then moved to raw. It was a slow transition. I actually gave him kibble one time (a free sample) when I ran out of his food. Whilst he didn’t have diarrheas, his stools were not what I’d consider ideal. - Do I recommend a raw or gently-cooked diet?
I don’t recommend one over the other—every dog is different. Some thrive on raw food, while others don’t tolerate it well. Instead of choosing sides, I rather focus on feeding our dogs a minimally processed, whole foods diet that support their individual needs. Raw diets provide food in its natural state, preserving enzymes and certain heat-sensitive nutrients. But they also come with food safety concerns, especially if the ingredients aren’t sourced, handled/prepared, and stored properly. On the other hand, gently-cooked diets reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and can improve digestibility and palatability—beneficial for dogs with sensitive tummies and underlying health conditions. In the end, the best diet is one that’s nutritionally balanced, made from high-quality ingredients, and suits your dog’s individual needs. What matters most is that your dog is thriving—not just surviving—on the food you choose. - Do I DIY Bowie’s meals or buy pre-mades?
Both. I rotate between DIY meals and pre-mades—I use pre-made for breakfast and DIY for dinner. I don’t feed Bowie once a day—maybe I should, but I think he’d murder me in my sleep! 😂 Since Bowie doesn’t have any allergies, I find pre-mades incredibly helpful. They save time, reduce stress around sourcing and balancing ingredients, and are sometimes more affordable. - Do I follow exact formulations when I DIY Bowie’s meals?
I follow general guidelines and ratios I’ve internalised over the years. After making his food for so long, I instinctively know what ingredients to include and in what amounts. However, now that Bowie is older, I’m more strict with following exact formulations. As he ages, his body may not be as adaptable or resilient (just like ours!), so I’m becoming more mindful of hitting the “complete and balanced” nutrient levels. - Do dogs need a complete and balanced meal every time?
Not necessarily. They can balance over time—if they’re getting enough variety and nutrients to do so. Each dog is different—some can do it well—some need exact and consistent formulation. Formulated pre-mades offer a good safety net for those who DIY meals without strict formulation. - Is variety important?
Yes—variety is great, as long as your dog tolerates it. Bowie doesn’t have allergies, but as he’s gotten older, I’ve simplified his meals by sticking to what works for him. I’ve limited his main animal proteins to lean, neutral/cooling meats like turkey, beef, rabbit, duck, and pork. I’ve also increased his intake of plant matter, making sure to include plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to better support his immune and health as he ages. - Do I feed all-organic, grass-fed/finished, etc.?
Not always. I try when possible and within my budget. I always buy human-grade meat and organs, and seasonal fresh produce. We grow some of our own vegetables, which we share with Bowie. Honestly, we don’t eat much meat ourselves—most of the freezer belongs to Bowie! - Do I only use whole foods and natural supplements?
Mostly, yes. I use whole foods or whole food-derived supplements whenever possible, but I’m not against synthetic/isolated supplements if they are needed. In some cases—like sourcing issues, dietary restrictions, or specific health concerns—synthetic/isolated supplementation is necessary and valid. If Bowie needs it, I have no hesitation in giving it to him. - Am I against kibble?
No. Kibble didn’t work for us, but that doesn’t mean it won’t work for others. Every dog and pet parent has different circumstances, budgets, time, and capacity. Finding what works for you is as important as finding what works for your dog. Even if you feed kibble, adding 10% fresh food or having a hybrid diet can still make a positive difference. - Do I give Bowie any additional supplements?
I’m always mindful when it comes to supplements—probably because I don’t love taking them myself! That said, Bowie does get some daily and rotating supplements like probiotics, joint supplement, dental supplement, omega supplement, and senior herbal blend supplement to support his liver, kidney, digestion, cognition, immune, and general wellness. - How do I track whether Bowie’s diet/nutrition is working?
Besides observing his stools and physical condition, I have regular vet check-ups, routine bloodwork and urinalysis, and dental check. I’ve also done HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis), which helps me evaluate and fine-tune his nutrition. - Am I super strict with what’s Bowie eating?
Not really! He gets the occasional snack—like a bit of bread, a cookie, or some cheese. And sometimes, he forages (unintentionally) on our walks—grass, poos, even discarded chips (life with a Labrador means I need eyes in the back of my head!). Thankfully, touch wood, his tummy and immune system are strong enough that the occasional mishap doesn’t cause any major digestive issues.
If you have any more questions about diet and nutrition, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Holistic vs. Conventional Approach
- Do I vaccinate Bowie?
Bowie had his core puppy vaccinations and a couple of booster shots after that. Since then, he hasn’t had additional vaccines. - Do I give Bowie flea and tick medication?
No, I don’t. In his 9 years, he’s only ever had it once (maybe twice), and that was many years ago when he had to stay in an unfamiliar environment with other unknown dogs. I feel comfortable not giving Bowie flea and tick medication because he isn’t in high-exposure situations. He doesn’t attend doggy daycare or frequently mix with unfamiliar dogs, and we don’t live in or visit tick-prone areas. That said, if your dog is at higher risk of exposure, it’s definitely worth reassessing and working with your vet to come up with a safe and effective protocol—whether a holistic, conventional, or a combination of both. Do I use natural flea and tick sprays? No. Do I include flea/tick prevention in Bowie’s diet? Not intentionally—aside from feeding him a whole foods diet. Our situation is unique, and what works for us may not work for you. The key is to weigh the pros and cons, and find the right balance based on your dog’s needs and lifestyle. - Do I give Bowie worming medications?
In his 9 years, I’ve only given Bowie intestinal worming tablets about 2–3 times. I add ground pumpkin seeds to his meals as a natural supplement. I stopped the regular heartworm prevention medication about two years ago since we live in a low-risk area for heartworms. That said, I’m careful to manage his environment and exposure, especially during the warmer months. I also focus on supporting Bowie’s gut microbiome and immune system through his diet. - Am I against antibiotics?
Not at all—especially when they are truly necessary. When Bowie needs antibiotics, I make sure I give him probiotics (including Saccharomyces boulardii) before, during, and after treatment. I also do liver support or detox after the course. Personally, I avoid antibiotics and other medications unless absolutely necessary, and I apply the same cautious principle for Bowie. - What about using pain killers and NSAIDs?
If pain relief is needed in acute or critical situations, then yes—Bowie has received them. For chronic health issues requiring long-term treatment, I believe it’s important to seek second opinions and explore integrative solutions, whether through holistic modalities alone or a combination of holistic and conventional medicine. - Do I use all-natural products in our day-to-day living?
Not always—but I’m definitely minimising the use and exposure to chemicals and toxins for both ourselves and Bowie, especially when it comes to cleaning products, pesticides/herbicides, and anything I put on/around Bowie. I hardly ever wash Bowie—and when I do, I’ll only use shampoo if he’s rolled in something stinky. I don’t use chemical disinfectant sprays at home, and I avoid using herbicides in our garden altogether. We live simply, out in the bush, surrounded by nature and away from pollution. - What holistic modalities have I used on Bowie? Do they work?
I’ve used (and still use regularly) TCVM food therapy principles, herbs, canine rehabilitation, massage, and Reiki. I haven’t tried acupuncture on Bowie just yet, even though I personally experience the benefits. I’m still figuring out how to keep him calm and still long enough for a full session!
I apply TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine) principles when preparing Bowie’s meals. I also use this approach for myself, almost instinctively. When my body feels off, unwell, or stagnant, I naturally gravitate toward certain fresh foods or herbs, and they help me feel better, often almost instantly. That personal experience gives me more confidence in using the same philosophy for Bowie. In fact, we often experience similar health patterns, which isn’t surprising given that we live closely, share the same environment, and are often exposed to similar stressors.
Herbal support is another key part of Bowie’s care. He’s currently on a senior herbal blend to support his liver, kidneys, digestion, cognition, immunity, and overall health. I’ve noticed a real difference—his eyes look clearer and brighter, which is meaningful in TCVM as the eyes are connected to liver, heart, and kidney health.
When Bowie injured his supraspinatus tendon and cruciate ligament, we opted for a non-surgical approach. He went through about 9 months of intensive canine rehabilitation, including tailored strengthening exercises, laser therapy, massage, regenerative injection therapy, and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to help him get back on all fours. That experience showed me how powerful rehab and regenerative medicine can be when done consistently and intentionally. You can read more about that journey here.
I’ve found physiotherapy and clinical pilates incredibly helpful for myself. I have scoliosis and chronic back pain, and they’ve helped me manage pain and function better day-to-day. So I’ve recently started Bowie back on the strengthening and balance exercises at home to support his muscles and mobility, especially as he gets older.
Massage is something we both enjoy. It helps Bowie (and myself) relaxed and strengthens our bond. As for Reiki, I’ve had sessions myself, which have helped me realign and rebalance, physically and emotionally. The first time I booked Reiki for Bowie was after he was attacked by another dog. It was such a traumatic experience for him, and it altered him—he’s no longer his happy, light self. So I wanted to help him heal on a deeper level. The Reiki session helped him immensely—he’s back to his happy, confident self. Since then, he’s had a few more sessions, and we now use Reiki regularly to help rebalance and centre his physical and emotional being.
Do holistic modalities work? It can be hard to measure sometimes, especially with dogs who can’t tell us how they feel. That’s why I often try something on myself first. I find that what supports my own body often gives me insights into what may work for Bowie too. - How do I choose which approach to take for Bowie?
To be honest, it’s not always easy to know what the “right” approach is, especially when you need to make a quick decision. I’ve made mistakes along the way—there have been moments where I’ve looked back and thought, I should’ve done that differently. But that’s how I learn, and I know I’ll keep learning (and probably making more mistakes—hopefully not too many!). What has helped me most is listening to my intuition. I also believe it’s really important to educate yourself and get a proper diagnosis before making any decisions, and stay open-minded to different modalities, both holistic and conventional care. At the same time, it’s just as important to have a team of professionals you can trust—people who genuinely care, know your dog’s history, and can help guide you with honesty and experience.
Is there anything else you’re curious about? Feel free to ask—I’m always happy to share!
How do I approach Bowie’s health?
I take a holistic (whole) approach to Bowie’s health, and to my own! To me, holistic doesn’t mean relying blindly on all-natural and rejecting modern medicine—we live in the different world to our ancestors. It means looking at the whole picture—body, mind, spirit—and finding balance in it all.
Honestly, it gets overwhelming sometimes, trying to keep up with the latest info, new studies, conflicting advice, and all the noise on social media. Lately, I’ve found myself stepping away from all that and coming back to the basics, what works for us, and trusting my instincts.
Sometimes, I think we can get so caught up in chasing the latest science and trying to live the longest life possible that we forget the simple, natural rhythms of life—how we and our dogs are meant to live—in connection with nature, in harmony with other living beings, moving our bodies, resting, having a sense of purpose, enjoying nourishing food, and living with joy, gratitude, and contentment.
I don’t want to shape my life (or Bowie’s) solely by scientific studies (though they have their place), and I completely respect those who do. But personally, I rather look to real people and real dogs around me who live with joy, vitality, and good health into their senior years. I pay attention to how they live, what they prioritise, and how they care for themselves—and I try to carry those same principles into the way I live and care for Bowie.
