How to Confidently Advocate for Your Dog Even When It Challenges the Norm
One of my main goals is to empower pet parents with the confidence to lead their pet’s healthcare team. Because at the end of the day, you really are the one at the center of your pet’s wellness journey. When you’re raising your dog naturally, that role can feel even more overwhelming at times. But it’s also incredibly meaningful—and with the right support and information, it becomes a powerful way to protect and advocate for the animal you love most.
Why It’s Okay to Question the “Normal” in Vet Care
There are a lot of things that have become “normal” in modern veterinary medicine—just like in human medicine. But just because something is routine doesn’t mean you have to accept it without question. If you’re someone who wants to raise your dog with fewer chemicals, less toxicity, and more respect for the body’s natural processes, then it’s important to work with a practitioner who either shares that mindset or is open to supporting it.
Take the time to think about what kind of approach you want to take, and communicate that clearly. Your clarity sets the tone for the kind of care your dog receives.
What Advocating for Your Dog Can Look Like
Advocating for your pet—especially when you’re committed to raising them naturally—means being willing to think differently, do your homework, and speak up when it counts. It’s about trusting your instincts and taking an active role in decisions that impact your dog’s health. That might look like:
Asking About Titer Testing Instead of Automatically Revaccinating
If your vet recommends annual core vaccines like parvo or distemper, ask for a titer test to check immunity first. These vaccines often last many years—sometimes for life. For rabies (which is legally required), opt for the 3-year version when possible, and support your dog’s immune system, liver, and nervous system before and after.
Side note: States like Alabama allow medical exemptions from rabies vaccination in cases of cancer, autoimmune disease, or serious chronic illness—if your vet is willing to sign off. If your dog is fragile, it’s worth discussing.
Rethinking Monthly Flea and Tick Prevention
You don’t have to default to harsh chemical preventatives. Natural protocols can be built by layering multiple tools—herbs, essential oils, diet, immune support, and detox strategies. You’re allowed to ask, “Is there a gentler way?”
Feeding Real Food. Period.
The foundation of health starts with what goes in the bowl. Raw, lightly cooked, freeze-dried, or even whole-food toppers—all of it helps. If a prescription food or ultra-processed kibble doesn’t sit right with you, it’s okay to say no. Nourishment should be nonnegotiable.
Working With a Vet Who Respects Your Values
You don’t need a vet who agrees with everything you do—you need one who listens, respects your philosophy, and supports your choices. You deserve that. Your dog deserves that.
Saying No—or Say “Let Me Think About It”
You are not obligated to make a decision in the moment. If you’re feeling unsure, it’s OK to take a step back. You can delay the vaccine or you can delay a non-life-threatening procedure. You can accept the prescription and go home and put it to the side in case you need it.
I’ve done this several times—and in most cases, I never ended up needing the prescription drug because my more holistic approach worked.
Continuing to Learn. Always.
When it comes to health—ours and our pets’—we should never stop learning. There’s so much valuable information out there and so many incredible people sharing what they’ve discovered.
Sign up for webinars. Join summits. Listen to podcasts. Attend conferences. Read the books. Ask questions. Talk to others who are on a similar path. The more you know, the better decisions you can make—and the more options you have.
Trust Yourself—You’re Your Dog’s Best Advocate
If you find yourself in a situation where something doesn’t feel right—say so. Pause. Breathe. Reevaluate. That moment of resistance could save your dog from unnecessary harm, and save you from the weight of regret.
Because your dog deserves a voice—and no one is better equipped to be that voice than you.