Pets are not toys to be taken out and played with occasionally and otherwise ignored, they're living creatures that are dependent on our love and devotion throughout their lifetimes.

As with humans, a pet that is ill and left untreated is being denied the right to enjoy life. For that reason it's crucially important that a pet's health needs are taken seriously, something that can sometimes prove costly.

Should you pet's health falter, you'll probably find yourself standing between a choice of natural remedies and mainstream pet medicine as an increasing number of owners are starting to question the side effects that some medicines are having on their pet's health .

There's no doubt that scientists around the world are struggling to come up with appropriate pet medicine that doesn't have any adverse side effects but, as of yet, a lot of ground's still left to be covered.

What's important is that you discuss your pet's health with your vet and together come to a decision as to how your pet should be treated. By all means discuss alternative – natural – treatments and, should your vet prescribe medication, make sure you fully understand why your pet's medicine is necessary and exactly how it works, including the possible side effects. Only then can you decide whether you also believe it's the right choice for your pet.

The Internet is a wonderful depository of information, allow pet owners to meet others with similar problems, look up symptoms, find alternative treatments (to be discussed with a vet, remember), buy pet medicines and much, much more whether the problem's a simple as dental care or something far more serious.

Whether or not there's been any major progress in pet's health care over the past few years is a matter of discussion. Some would say no, that there are far too many side effects to conventional medicine while others would argue that the side effects are worth risking if their pet's health can be improved.