At Happy Earth Pet Hospice, Dr. Jeanette recognizes that every pet is an individual.

Research and clinical studies support that certain breeds are more predisposed to specific disease processes. For example, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a high likelihood of developing heart disease, while German Shepherds are more predisposed to mobility disorders such as Degenerative Myelopathy. Every breed has its own list of diseases that are closely tied to their genetics.

Although specific diseases are more commonly seen in certain breeds, a pet’s personality and their ability to maintain balance throughout their lifetime may also be underlying factors in developing disease.

“It is more important to know what sort of person has a disease, than to know what sort of disease a person has.” – Hippocrates

This quote applies to our pets, too:

“It is more important to know what sort of pet has a disease, than to know what sort of disease a pet has.”

In my experience, disease prognosis is often strongly influenced not just by the disease itself, but by the personality of the pet. “Who the pet is” should always be considered.

The Five Elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water & Wood

Each of the Five Elements has specific characteristics, similar to personality traits. Many pets primarily identify with one of the Five Elements, while others are a combination of two or three. All five elements exist in every pet, but one tends to shine the brightest. In a balanced pet, it can sometimes be challenging to determine the primary element. In an unbalanced pet—especially in times of stress, physical strain, or emotional demand—it’s often easier to recognize.

 

WOOD

“My name is Wood.” I am the leader of the pack—strong and fearless. It doesn’t matter if I’m big or small; I’m still the boss. I do well under pressure and I love to win. I’m a rule-maker and expect my family to follow my rules, even when I change them! My family loves my confidence but sometimes describes me as demanding or impatient. When I’m stressed, I can easily become irritable or angry. If I had a human job, I’d be a great General.

 

FIRE

 “My name is Fire.” I’m social, playful, and charismatic. I have a beautiful voice and love to use it! When people visit, I make sure they notice me because I know they came to see me. My family says I can get overly excited, but it’s just because I’m so passionate. I can also be sensitive and blow things out of proportion. If I had a human job, I’d be an Empress—I love to inspire others.

EARTH

“My name is Earth.” I’m laid back and easygoing. My family describes me as humble, sweet, and loyal. I love being with my family—and I love food! If there’s ever a conflict, I try to restore peace and harmony. When I’m stressed, I tend to worry, which sometimes causes tummy upset. If I had a human job, I’d be a Healer.

 

METAL

“My name is Metal.” I love structure and order. My family says I’m disciplined, confident, and consistent. I strive to do my best in everything and set high personal standards. I’m comfortable socially but value independence. Strangers might describe me as aloof. If I had a human job, I’d be a Judge.

WATER

“My name is Water.” I’m quiet but observant—a deep thinker and planner. When visitors come, I often hide until they leave. I have trouble with trust and can be fearful, but my family loves and supports me. When I’m stressed, I withdraw emotionally. If I had a human job, I’d be a Philosopher.

Diseases Commonly Associated with Each Element

Wood

• Aggression
• Tendon & ligament injuries
• Liver & gallbladder problems
• Seizures

Fire

• Heart disease
• Hyperactivity
• Vascular events

Earth

• Gastrointestinal issues
• Obesity
• Muscle atrophy

Metal

• Nasal congestion
• Coughing
• Constipation

Water

• Back pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Bladder & kidney disease

Supporting Your Pet’s Balance

Based on my experience and education, I believe that if we changed our mindset about disease and focused more on who our pets are as individuals, we could better support their internal balance—and ultimately help prevent disease.

If your pet has been diagnosed with a terminal disease or life-limiting illness and you’d like to explore ways to support them, I am here to help.

Bringing Compassionate, Integrative Care to You

We proudly provide mobile veterinary hospice and TCVM services in North Carolina (Aydlett, Barco, Camden, Coinjock, Currituck, Elizabeth City, Grandy, Gregory, Indiantown, Moyock, Powells Point, Point Harbor, Shawboro, Shiloh, Sligo, South Mills, Weeksville) and Virginia (Chesapeake-Greenbrier, Great Bridge, Hickory, Grassfield, Deep Creek, Edinburgh, and Virginia Beach). Because we come to you, your pet can remain in the comfort of their home while receiving personalized, integrative care. Learn how TCVM can enhance your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

📞 Call us or visit HappyEarthPetHospice.com to schedule a consultation.