🎤 Interview with Sonia de Bizcarra Rodríguez – Founder of Homyvet 🐶🐱
Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Sonia de Bizcarra Rodríguez, veterinarian and founder of Homyvet Integrative Veterinary Medicine. With a holistic and natural approach, Sonia has created a unique space where traditional veterinary medicine is combined with natural therapies and ecological products, always prioritizing the well-being of animals. 🏡🌿
Since its inception, Sonia has opted for a different way of practicing veterinary medicine, treating each case individually and seeking the root cause of diseases instead of merely treating symptoms. Her clinic, located in a natural environment and Fear Free certified, guarantees a stress-free experience for animals and their families. 🐾
Homyvet is also a benchmark in sustainability, reducing plastic use, optimizing resources, and employing renewable energy. Furthermore, they have developed their own workshop to offer natural and balanced diets for dogs and cats, providing families with healthy eating options without complications. 🍖🥦
In this interview, Sonia talks to us about the importance of natural feeding, the benefits of using organic products, and how an integrative approach can improve the health of our pets. Let's get to the interview! 🎙️🐶
1. From an integrative approach, how do diet and the use of natural products influence the general health of dogs?
Integrative veterinary medicine considers the animal as a whole, seeking to balance their physical, emotional, and environmental health. Diet plays a crucial role, as a natural and balanced diet provides the essential nutrients for the proper functioning of the body, strengthens the immune system, and prevents chronic diseases.
On the other hand, the use of natural products—such as supplements, hygiene products, and organic toothpastes—helps reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, minimizing adverse reactions and promoting overall well-being. This combination promotes holistic health and a better quality of life for the animal.
2. You have been using our Hair and Skin supplement for a year in dogs with different needs. In which cases has it been most useful and what improvements have you observed in the animals?
Hair and Skin is the perfect combination to supplement the homemade diets that we prescribe individually to our patients at Homyvet Integrative Veterinary Medicine. It has proven especially useful in dogs with dermatological problems such as atopic dermatitis, extreme dryness, excessive hair loss, or lack of shine.
Here we can see Kai, with Leishmaniasis, whose condition has greatly improved with the supplement.
We have also used it in dogs that require additional nutritional support during seasonal changes or after illnesses that affected the quality of their skin and coat. The most notable improvements include a reduction in itching and inflammation, more hydrated skin, and the growth of a stronger, shinier, and healthier coat.
3. We know that oral health is key in integrative veterinary medicine. What do you think of our 100% natural toothpaste compared to other products on the market?
Oral health is key, and its consequences can be reflected systemically (and vice versa).
The Doog Life toothpaste is a stress-free option to ensure our furry friends' dental care, ideal when teeth brushing is not possible. In our practice, it has become a key complement after the dental hygiene protocols we perform without anesthesia.
It stands out for its composition free of harsh chemicals, dyes, or artificial preservatives, which makes it a safe and effective option. We have noticed that this toothpaste offers a deep clean without causing gum irritation or altering the natural balance of the oral flora. Furthermore, its formulation with natural ingredients helps combat bad breath, reduce tartar buildup, and maintain optimal oral hygiene.
4. Many dental products for dogs contain artificial or abrasive ingredients. What are the advantages of a natural toothpaste like ours in terms of safety and effectiveness?
Conventional toothpastes often contain artificial flavorings and preservatives that can be irritating or toxic. In contrast, a natural toothpaste like The Doog Life's offers effective cleaning using safe and non-abrasive ingredients, which protects the dog's tooth enamel and gums.
Furthermore, by not containing artificial ingredients, the risk of allergic reactions or digestive problems is reduced. This combination of safety and effectiveness makes it an excellent option for the oral care of our furry friends.
5. As integrative veterinarians, you place special importance on topical products that come into contact with dogs' skin. Why do you consider an organic shampoo like ours to be a better option for canine hygiene?
The skin is the largest organ of the body and the first defensive barrier they have. It often expresses deficiencies they may have due to their diet, immune system, or a metabolic disorder. If we don't overload it with chemicals, it can perform its functions better and contribute to overall health.
It is a key protective barrier, so it is essential to use gentle products that respect the microbiota on their skin. The Doog Life's organic shampoo, being made with natural ingredients and free of sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, cleans effectively without altering the skin's pH or removing essential natural oils. This prevents irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions, promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat.
6. For owners looking for a more natural approach to caring for their pets, what advice would you give them to complement the use of these products in their daily lives?
We recommend starting with a quality natural diet, adapted to the specific needs of each dog. Supplementing the diet with natural supplements, such as those from The Doog Life, helps cover nutritional deficiencies and maintain optimal skin, coat, and overall health.
It is also important to establish hygiene routines using organic products to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals. All this without forgetting to promote emotional well-being through walks, play, and mental stimulation, which is key to a complete integrative approach. Only then can true HEALTH be understood.
📌 Conclusion
From Homyvet, Sonia de Bizcarra reminds us of the importance of treating our animals' health from a global perspective. Natural feeding, the use of organic products, and emotional well-being are fundamental pillars to guarantee a long and healthy life for our furry friends.
Thank you, Sonia, for sharing your experience and knowledge with us! 💚🐾