hol.lis.tic 1. Pertaining to the theory that whole entities are more than the sum of their parts. 2. Of or using that consider one's total state, mind, body and spirit in the treatment of disease.

How does the word holistic apply to medicine? The Canadian Holistic Medical Association defines Holistic Medicine this way:

Holistic medicine is a system of health care which fosters a cooperative relationship among all those involved, leading towards optimal attainment of the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual aspects of health.
It emphasizes the need to look at the whole person (dogs in our case), including analysis of physical, nutritional, environmental, emotional, social, spiritual and lifestyle values. It encompasses all stated modalities of diagnosis and treatment including drugs and surgery if no safe alternative exists. Holistic medicine focuses on education and responsibility for personal efforts to achieve balance and well being.