Functional medicine is a form of preventative care; the focus being on maintaining a healthy relationship between the organs and entire systems. Treatment includes detoxification, the use of homeopathic supplements and individualized nutritional plans. Proponents of functional medicine say this approach addresses root causes of illness and disease.

Smart Talk will explore the use of functional medicine and its applications in the region. Guest host Valerie Pritchett of ABC 27 speaks with Dr. John Neely, a functional medicine practitioner certified by American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine.

Also, the field of veterinary medicine has seen incredible advancements over the years; from acupuncture for your Airedale to CAT scans for your cat. Issues of medical ethics are being applied to the world of animal medicine as Americans develop familial connections to their pets.

Smart Talk will look at the veterinary sciences in 2017 and take your questions with Dr. Christine Bunner of the Rossmoyne Animal Hospital and Dr. Alan Kirmayer, Chief of Staff at the Animal Hospital of Rye in Marysville.