Integrative veterinary medicine is a comprehensive medical approach to pet and animal health care that combines conventional medicine and complementary/alternative therapies. This type of veterinary practice focuses on treating the whole animal, the partnership between the client and the veterinarian, and the use of all appropriate therapeutic options to achieve optimal wellness for your pet or animal. It encompasses many different therapies, including acupuncture, spinal manipulation therapy (animal chiropractic), homeopathy, herbal therapy, and nutrition. The development of a treatment plan takes into account the whole picture of the animal, environment, disease patterns, diet, and relationship with the owner. This integrative approach to veterinary medicine is designed to minimize adverse effects, maximize successful treatment outcomes, and improve the quality of life of the patient.