Our Philosophy of Integrative Veterinary Medicine
At Mariposa Veterinary Wellness Center in Lenexa, KS, we practice integrative veterinary medicine, a comprehensive approach that combines the best of conventional medicine with complementary and alternative therapies. We focus on treating the whole animal, building a true partnership between you and your veterinarian, and using every appropriate therapeutic option to help your pet achieve optimal wellness.
Working Together to Provide More
Our emphasis is on using every reasonable therapy and system of medicine that can work together to prevent and treat disease. Combining approaches gives us an increased capacity to help your pet that would not be possible using one system of medicine alone. This integrative approach is designed to minimize adverse effects, maximize successful treatment outcomes and improve quality of life. Any veterinarian who combines therapies outside of conventional medicine with conventional care is practicing integrative medicine, and we believe the future of veterinary medicine lies in integration.
In practice, this means your pet may receive advanced diagnostics, surgery or prescription medications when they are the right tool, alongside complementary therapies that support healing and comfort. Explore our full list of veterinary services.
Treating the Whole Body
Complementary and alternative veterinary therapies may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, laser therapy, chiropractic-style veterinary medical manipulation, therapeutic nutrition and nutritional supplements such as Standard Process whole food products.
Each of these therapies treats the whole body. A holistic approach takes body, mind and spirit into account when building a treatment plan. Complementary therapies are designed to stimulate the body’s own adaptive, self-regulating mechanisms or to provide substances the body can use to heal itself.
Integrative and Alternative Medicine Terminology
- Complementary medicine: Therapies used together with conventional medicine
- Alternative medicine: Therapies used in place of conventional medicine
- Holistic medicine: A general term for any treatment intended to treat the individual as a whole
- Allopathic medicine: Conventional or Western medicine
Animal Handling & Restraint
Mariposa Veterinary Wellness Center was founded on the belief that every patient should be treated with respect, kindness and understanding. We do our best to make our hospital a safe and happy place for pets whenever they walk through our doors. We see many pets with a history of fear or even aggression, and with patience and gentleness we can often help them become comfortable with the care they need. Our goal is cooperation, not control. Our Fear Free trained team takes time with patients other clinics may consider difficult, and our Gold-level Cat Friendly status reflects our commitment to low-stress feline care. Learn what to expect during your visit.
Feral-Friendly Care
Our compassionate team has extensive experience working with feral cats. If you care for feral cats and would like to provide medical care for them, please call us at (913) 825-3330 for more information.
Our Commitment to Standards and the Environment
Our philosophy extends to how we practice and where we practice. We are proud to hold AAHA accreditation and to care for patients in an environmentally responsible green building. Read more about why families choose us.
Our Philosophy FAQs
What is integrative veterinary medicine?
Integrative veterinary medicine combines conventional medicine with complementary therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs, laser therapy, chiropractic and therapeutic nutrition to treat the whole animal.
Does integrative medicine replace conventional veterinary care?
No. At Mariposa, complementary therapies are typically used alongside conventional diagnostics, medications and surgery rather than instead of them.
What does holistic mean in veterinary care?
Holistic care treats the individual as a whole, considering body, mind and spirit when creating a treatment plan.
How do you handle fearful or aggressive pets?
We use patience, gentleness and Fear Free techniques, focusing on cooperation rather than control. We take our time with difficult patients to keep them and our team safe.
Do you provide care for feral cats?
Yes. Our team has extensive experience with feral cats. Please call our office to discuss how we can help.
Why choose an integrative veterinarian?
An integrative veterinarian can draw on multiple systems of medicine, which may improve outcomes, reduce side effects and enhance your pet’s quality of life.
Experience Whole-Pet Care
Discover how our integrative approach can help your pet. Call (913) 825-3330 or request an appointment with Mariposa Veterinary Wellness Center.