This Is Who We Can't Replace

Despite our best efforts, Nala likes to eat bees.

At the end of a recent hike, I noticed her face was a bit puffy. By the time I pulled into our driveway, just a few minutes down the road, her face had ballooned and the swelling was nearing her throat. In a panic, I hauled her down to our (thankfully very close) vet. As we reached the parking lot, she was lethargic and breathing rapidly in my back seat. I picked her up and ran her inside, where our vet administered an emergency dose of steroids and antihistamines. Thanks to our incredible veterinary team (Dr. Collette, Roxbury Animal Clinic), she’s just fine… and continues to try to eat bees.

I’m sharing this because there seems to be a worrisome and irresponsible theme in the natural wellness industry of “us vs. them,” where modern medicine is demonized and natural solutions are posed as the only good choice in all situations. Reflecting on our very scary adventure, I thought it was a good time to clarify our values on this. There’s nuance to be held when it comes to our beloved creatures. Because your dog probably doesn’t need steroids for the chronic itching… but they may need them in an emergency. 

We’re a natural brand built on science, and have a deep respect and appreciation for modern medicine and its providers. Our Manuka Honey Salve is an incredible healing tool - but there was no amount of it that I could have slathered on her bee sting that would have prevented the swelling from reaching her airway. We aren’t here to replace your vet; we’re here to work with them. Our team loves interacting with our customers and pointing them in the right direction regarding our products, but we can’t give specific medical advice- and that’s why it’s so important to have a working relationship with a vet who shares your holistic values. 

There is a time and place for both natural and modern medicine; holistic care offers room for both. And that's what we believe in - a natural foundation for daily and preventative care, with space for today's medical advancements when necessary.