Oakland, CA – Veterinarian and scientist, Dr. Gary Richter, received the Holistic Practitioner of the Year Award from the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association The Council of Elders. Such a prestigious award was given to Dr. Richter in acknowledgment and recognition of his work in the practice of veterinary medicine.

The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association consists of more than 1500 members and the mission of the organization is to “…advance and educate in the science and art of holistic veterinary medicine…promote the health and welfare of all species of animals and to extend to the agricultural community…to function as a forum to explore all the modalities considered to be in the field of veterinary holistic medicine…” and provide resources through innovation, education and integrative medicine.

The Council of Elders (COE) exists within the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association in order to maintain wisdom of experience and the essence of healing modalities through a spirit-mind-body approach. According to www.ahvma.org, “The awards focus attention in a fun way and honor exceptional contribution.”

This award is one of many distinguished awards received by Dr. Richter. His groundbreaking work as a veterinarian, who practices both Holistic and Western medicine, has landed him the title of America’s Favorite Veterinarian in 2015 by the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF).

Dr. Richter also became an International Best-Selling Author and a #1 Amazon Best-Selling Author for his book, The Ultimate Pet Health Guide. In his latest book, Dr. Richter uncovers the essential keys of helping pet owners navigate treatment options for their pets and provides information when it comes to the best traditional and modern veterinary techniques. He shares 50 of the best fresh pet food recipes in addition to his best-kept secrets that help pets live longer and healthier lives.

Dr. Richter’s book has caught the attention of Ian Somerhalder – actor and founder of the Ian Somerhalder Foundation, which seeks to help, educate and collaborate with people to benefit the planet, including its’ animals. After learning about Dr. Richter, Ian Somerhalder wrote the forward for The Ultimate Pet Health Guide.

Dr. Richter’s intention for the book, The Ultimate Pet Health Guide, is to help every pet owner care for their cats and dogs using the best holistic and conventional approaches. This guide to integrative care helps pet owners find the best ways to care for them. Most recently, he was on the Pet Show with Dr. Katy discussing his new book.

In his book, Dr. Richter explains various treatments and explains to the reader why a specific treatment is important for which illnesses. He offers specific recommendations for an integrative approach to common pet diseases such as allergies, skin conditions, diabetes heart disease, and cancer. All of Dr. Richter’s recommended treatments are backed by extensive research and are from years of success using them at his own clinical practice.