In caring for her animal patients and her own pets, Dr. Becker uses what she calls her “Three Pillars of Pet Health” as a proactive approach to wellness. Regardless of the reason for the visit, by focusing on these three pillars, Dr. Becker knows she is covering all the important aspects of each pet's health and well-being.

Species-Appropriate Nutrition

The diet you feed your pet should be nutritionally balanced and biologically appropriate. Foods in their natural form — whole, raw and unprocessed – generate the least amount of metabolic stress and are ideal for a cat or dog. Offering your pet food in its natural state also provides him needed moisture and easier digestion. And because cats and dogs are carnivorous, a diet that is high in protein and low in grain content is best.

A Balanced, Functional Immune System

A balanced immune system – one that is able to protect from pathogens without being overactive, leading to allergies and autoimmune disease – is key for your pet’s well-being. Avoid overuse of drugs, like antibiotics, steroids, chemical pest repellents and parasite preventives, which can cause toxins to build up in your pet's body, creating an imbalance in her immune system.

A Sound, Resilient Body

Your pet’s muscle tone, body weight, teeth and gums, heart and other organs should all be healthy and working efficiently. Regular routine care and consistent aerobic exercise are great ways to maintain good physical conditioning. Keeping your pet from becoming overweight or obese is also extremely important.

This three-pillar approach has proven to be invaluable to the clients in Dr. Becker’s practice. She found that no matter what specific condition a pet is being treated for, all three of these pillars need to be addressed for total health.