Philosophy and Values of the Practice

The 5-E™ Concept – Health from the Power of the Elements

The 5-E™ Concept was developed by veterinarian Thomas Backhaus, based on over 40 years of veterinary experience. It combines knowledge from various medical disciplines: from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to osteopathy, phytotherapy, conventional medicine, nutritional medicine, homeopathy, and regulatory medicine.

The result is a holistic system that does not view animals as isolated parts, but as living beings in interaction with their environment. The five elements symbolically represent the central areas of animal health:

• Water – Regulation & Flow in the Body
  Water represents inner movement: blood, lymph, digestion, and energy must flow for healing to take place. We focus on a well-functioning metabolism, a strong immune system, and good organ connectivity.
• Light – Energy & Vitality
  Light symbolizes vitality, cell regeneration, and life force. Through targeted nutrient supply, energy therapies, and holistic impulses, we strengthen the body’s natural self-healing abilities.
• Air – Breathing & Freedom
  Air stands for free breathing – both physically and emotionally. Fascia, the nervous system, and behavior are closely interconnected. Through manual techniques, targeted relief, and emotional balance, we create space for renewed lightness.
• Earth – Stability & Nutrition
  Earth provides support and nourishes life. A species-appropriate, individually tailored diet forms the foundation of every therapy. The intestines, in particular, play a key role in resilience, immune strength, and long-term health.
• Plants – Healing & Impulse from Nature
  Plants have accompanied medicine since ancient times. Whether in the form of herbs, tinctures, or homeopathic remedies – their effects are profound, regulating, and gentle. They set healing impulses where the body needs support.

The 5-E™ Concept is not a rigid treatment plan, but a living compass. It helps us to perceive the animal in its entirety – not only as a body, but as a sentient being embedded in its environment, with individual needs. This creates a form of veterinary medicine that unites rather than divides – between conventional medicine and naturopathy, between technology and intuition, between human and animal.

Our Veterinary Code – Holistic. Individual. Competent.

For us, veterinary medicine means responsibility and ethics – towards the animal, the human, and their shared relationship. Our code forms the foundation of our actions:

• Recognition of the animal as an individual
  Every animal is unique. We take personality, history, and living conditions into account – and develop treatment plans that truly fit.
• Promotion of a healthy lifestyle
  We place special emphasis on balanced nutrition, species-appropriate exercise, and mindful care. Our recommendations are based on experience, research, and individual assessment.
• Consideration of environmental factors
  Noise, climate, social contacts – all of these influence an animal’s health. We include these aspects and help to create a positive living environment.
• Integration of nature-based therapies
  Whenever possible, we prefer natural treatment approaches and combine them with conventional medical knowledge – for effective yet gentle care.
• Close cooperation with animal owners
  Trust, openness, and communication are essential to us. Together with the animal owners, we develop individual solutions – and share knowledge so that health can be maintained in everyday life.