Ayurvedic Veterinary Care in Bellevue, WA
Ayurveda, which means “the science of life,” is one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world, originating in India thousands of years ago. At Animal Wellness and Rehab Center, we use Ayurveda as a preventative and healing approach that considers your pet’s specific constitution, or doshas, to find the source of imbalance. Our goal is to restore harmony between the three doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, using herbal supplements, diet, exercise, and massage therapy tailored to your individual pet.
Understanding the Three Doshas
In Ayurveda, every living being is made up of five basic elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. These combine to form three constitution types, or doshas:
- Vata is governed by air and ether and relates to movement, circulation, and the nervous system
- Pitta is governed by fire and water and relates to digestion, metabolism, and body temperature
- Kapha is governed by water and earth and relates to structure, stability, and lubrication of the joints
Most pets have one dominant dosha or a combination of two. According to Ayurvedic principles, illness develops when the doshas fall out of balance, so treatment focuses on restoring that balance rather than only addressing symptoms.
How We Use Ayurveda for Pets
After a thorough exam, we assess your pet’s constitution and current state of balance. Your pet’s plan may include Ayurvedic herbal formulas, which are part of our botanical medicine services, along with diet recommendations suited to their dosha, appropriate exercise, and massage therapy. Herbs such as ashwagandha, turmeric, boswellia, and triphala have long been used in Ayurveda to support joints, digestion, and vitality.
Experience in Ayurvedic Veterinary Medicine
Our hospital is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic tradition. Dr. Sodhi has presented on Ayurveda in veterinary medicine to the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, and you can read those presentation notes on our Ayurveda in Veterinary Medicine page. Ayurveda works alongside conventional medicine and our other holistic and naturopathic care options, including acupuncture and chiropractic care.
Ayurvedic Veterinary Care FAQs
What is Ayurveda in veterinary medicine?
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India that focuses on restoring balance in the body using herbs, diet, exercise, and massage tailored to each animal’s constitution.
What are doshas?
Doshas are the three constitution types in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each pet has a unique balance of these doshas.
What conditions can Ayurveda help with?
Ayurveda is often used to support joint health, digestion, skin conditions, immune function, and overall vitality, and as a preventative approach to wellness.
Are Ayurvedic herbs safe for pets?
When prescribed by a veterinarian trained in Ayurveda and dosed correctly, Ayurvedic herbs are generally safe. Never give herbs without veterinary guidance.
Can Ayurveda be combined with conventional medicine?
Yes. We integrate Ayurveda with conventional treatment and other holistic therapies to create a complete care plan.
How do you determine my pet’s dosha?
We evaluate your pet’s physical traits, temperament, habits, diet, and health history during an Ayurvedic consultation.
Restore Balance to Your Pet’s Health
Learn how Ayurveda can support your pet. Call Animal Wellness and Rehab Center at (425) 455-8900 or request a holistic consultation online.