Functional veterinary medicine is an approach that focuses on identifying the root of the health challenge. It is an approach that seeks to provide a comprehensive view of each individual and identify all the imbalances that contribute to that illness. This is important because a single diagnosis can have numerous contributing factors. Optimal therapy involves identification of the root cause and contributing factors. Body function is a complex interaction between body systems, nutrition, lifestyle, and mental outlook. All of these are affected by the genetic makeup of the individual.

An important feature of functional medicine is the focus on body systems, their functional interrelationships, and how to improve their activities to address the root problem. For example, an individual that has frequent bacterial infections may have an immune system weakness. So rather than focus on antibiotics only, a functional approach searches for the cause of the poor immune function. Keep in mind that the immune system is more than just the white blood cells circulating in the blood. It also includes the protective function of the skin and mucous membranes, i.e. lining of the respiratory tract, as well as cells in the tissues. The systems approach, in addition to evaluating the immune system considers the interactions between other systems like the digestive system, endocrine system -hormones, and the central nervous system -brain and spinal cord. Each has direct and indirect effects on immune function.

In addition, functional veterinary medicine uses all the indicated diagnostic tools such as blood testing, radiographs, and ultrasound. Veterinarians must also consider animal species differences. For example, cats have different nutritional requirements than dogs. Their metabolisms and susceptibility to certain diseases are also different. This means that identification of the core problem must take into consideration these differences. Once the core issue has been identified, a support plan that incorporates a range of healing modalities can be developed. The use of multiple healing modalities is a central theme of integrative veterinary medicine. An example of a functional and integrative approach can be seen with a chronic sinus infection in a dog. This could result from a weakened immune system assuming that the complete evaluation ruled out issues like like a tooth root abscess draining into the sinus, a foreign body, or a tumor in the sinus. The focus on the immune system should include the health of the lining of the sinus cavity. Increasing the amount of vitamin A and C could be enough to improve the immune barrier function of the lining of the sinus cavity. Keep in mind that dogs are not always efficient at converting beta-carotene into the vitamin A.

Continuing our focus on immune function, other parts of the body that can impact immune function include the digestive tract. Problems like inflammatory bowel disease could result in reduced immune function. Some estimate that at least 70 percent of immune focus is on the digestive tract. This means that inflammation in the intestines can be a large drain on the immune system resources. Therefore, from an immune perspective having a healthy gut is essential for supporting the immune system. It is important to note that having normal stools and no vomiting does not mean that the gut is completely healthy.

An integrative approach for an immune challenged individual with digestive tract inflammation could include the following: A. probiotics to correct imbalanced gut flora -biome, B. glutamine to improve intestinal cells function, C. soluble fiber to increase short chain fatty acids, D. manual therapy to correct spinal alignment issues and improve the autonomic nervous system balance, E. avoiding food ingredients that cause sensitivities -allergies, F. acupuncture for balancing and improving digestive function, and G. herbs that can reduce intestinal inflammation and provide immune support. Keep in mind this is not a complete list but provides an idea of the range of integrative options that can be used including probiotics, nutritional supplements, acupuncture, herbs, and manual therapies. This integrative approach provides direct and indirect support for a stressed immune system associated with a digestive tract imbalance. Antibiotics may be indicated for bacterial infections while these other support therapies are being introduced.

Integrative veterinary medicine centered around a functional medicine approach can be a valuable way to help individuals. The discussion about chronic infections is just an example of a functional evaluation and integrative approach. All other health problems and other body systems can be evaluated and supported with this perspective.

If you have questions about your pet, contact your veterinarian.

Ron Carsten, DVM, PhD, CVA, CCRT was one of the first veterinarians in Colorado to use the integrative approach, has lectured widely to veterinarians, and has been a pioneer in the therapeutic use of food concentrates to manage clinical problems. He is also the founder of Colorado Animal Rescue (CARE). In addition to his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, he holds a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology and is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist. He practices integrative veterinary medicine in Glenwood Springs. Dr. Carsten is the 2022 Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Distinguished Service Award recipient.