[.ca] The Nature of Animal Healing: The Definitive Holistic ... (ISBN 0345439198)

From Amazon.com:
As an accomplished doctor of veterinary medicine, Martin Goldstein is well respected for his 25 years worth of experience in the field--experience he effectively utilizes in conjunction with his expertise in holistic medicine in his new book, The Nature of Animal Healing: The Path to Your Pet's Health, Happiness, and Longevity. Goldstein begins with a broad explanation of the origins of diseases in pets, then moves on to taking action against those diseases, not only offering thorough discussions of specific ailments--including cancer, allergies, and arthritis--and the holistic medicines available to help in the healing process, but also speaking to the "dubious legacy of vaccines" as well as the questionable quality of pet food. Finally, Goldstein turns his attention to the spiritual realm, addressing both the bonds that we have with our pets--and how those bonds aid in preventing and fighting our pets' health problems--as well as dealing with the death of a beloved pet. Goldstein's expert advice, inclusion of inspiring real-life cases, and thorough resource "compendium of holistic books, newsletters, Web sites, veterinarians, and associations" make this book a valuable addition to any pet owner's library. --Julia King

"Path" less traveled... a refreshing approach to pet care!:
I have been waiting SO long for a book like this! Little did I know that Dr. Goldstein had finally granted the hopes and wishes of people across the nation begging for an alternative to the drugs, disease, and unnecessary treatments plaguing our pets. His book is one enormous exposé on the veterinary and pet food industries! **Highlights** The first 4 chapters; if you read nothing else, I beg you to read chapters 1-4. - Chapter 1 & 2 make the concept of disease and infirmity completely understandable. Basically, sickness is the absence of health! Restoring health, instead of squelching the symptoms of illness, is the only way to your pet's ultimate wellness, longevity, and quality of life. - Chapters 3 & 4 are about food and vaccines respectively. Dr. Goldstein covers all of the basics of what is wrong with that bag of kibble in the closet, and why our companions deserve the best we can give them... not to mention the numerous health benefits of feeding them a wholesome food! In chapter 4 he goes on the expose the facts about vaccinations, why the could be HARMING our pets instead of helping them, and what vaccines are really necessary (if any). Best Points: · Very inspiring and motivating! If you've ever had excuses for doing things "just because I've always done it this way" this book will definitely change your perspective. · Dr. Goldstein is a real person. Not gimmicky like other authors, he actually admits his faults and explains his own reasoning. He is extremely credible (see his credentials as a vet) and believable. · The book is very well-written and easy to read · Back section has an "Alphabet of Ailments" from allergies to worms, and how to treat them effectively with natural remedies · The book is "open" and very fit-to-your-lifestyle Things some people may be uncomfortable with: · The "evidence" for his theories is largely anecdotal... but since half of healing and medicine is mystery, there is no way to test "wellness" or a degree of healing really. The volume of evidence is enormous, yet still the extremely scientifically minded may have a problem with it. · He does discuss topics like animal "spirituality" which some may not agree with. He also talks about animal communicators and his own qualms about such things though, so it's fairly balanced. An entire chapter is devoted to the "big C"... Cancer. From causes to cures he sheds an interesting light on the role of veterinary medicine in cancer. Overall, this is THE best book I have read on the subject of healing in general. I urge any pet lover to read it, especially if you are skeptical about holistic/alternative therapies. It is explanatory, helpful, and inspiring!

Real Food for Your Pets!:
From personal experience, I know Martin Goldstein is right on with feeding pets real food. I believe your dog will live a healthier and longer life eating the foods that Dr. Goldstein recommends. For years, my Pug struggled with crystals in her diet...both acidic and alkaline. She was put on different Hill's Prescriptive Diet foods. She was also going blind. Two years ago, I thought--enough of this crappy food--I want the rest of her days (at that time I thought very limited) to have more quality. I started to feed her free-range chicken and premium canned food (because I knew it was balanced.) She's still eating it and is now a healthy, almost 14 year old Pug! (I have since added meatloaf from free-range buffalo, brown rice and grated carrots.) Author of award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet.

FANSTATIC:
Love the book! Very good reading, Dr. Goldstein's writing is not dry and boring making it a trail to get through. Very informative, if you have ever thought about giving your dog a healthier life this is a book you need to read and keep on your shelf for reference. I have already refered back to this book numerous times. And my dogs (3 Great Danes)are already looking and felling better than they have before. It has also taught me not to take everything at face value but explore your options. Just because it has always been done that way, does not mean it is the best way!

Excellent!:
Excellent book. Well organized. The information on commercial pet food was eye-opening. Dr. Goldstein provides a balanced viewpoint on a natural diet that allows the reader to decide what is best for each pet. I have read quite a few "holistic" approach pet books and this is the first one I have been VERY impressed with. I know I will use this book as a reference for many years and many more pets to come. I wish I had had this book when my "boys" were still puppies.

Vaccinations:
This chapter is mandatory to read if you really care about your pet. It's an eye opener. Also, Chapter 2 on food is also a priority.