Services
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to initiate a desired effect. The process is used worldwide as a single therapy or in conjunction with other modalities to treat a wide variety of diseases. It has been used in both humans and animals for thousands of years with no significant side effects. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy, acupuncture is thought to balance the body's energy and consequently assist the body to maintain or restore health. In Western terms, acupuncture alters the body's biochemical and physiologic properties through stimulation of the nervous system, increasing blood flow, relief of muscle spasms, and the release of neurotransmitters and hormones. Acupuncture can treat diseases by relieving pain and promoting healing. Common conditions treated with acupuncture include musculoskeletal and neurologic conditions, geriatric weakness, and cancer. Acupuncture may also help with gastrointestinal problems, behavioral issues, and immune-mediated diseases.
Acupuncture for pets includes the following treatment options:
- Sterile dry needles to stimulate points directly
- Aquapuncture injections of a sterile liquid (such as vitamin B12) into a specific acupuncture point in order to provide a prolonged mechanical stimulus in the acupoint
- Electroacupuncture to stimulate points with a mild electric current
- Acupressure at particular acupoints that can be used by owners at home
- Moxibustion to stimulate points or areas using heat provided by a coal made of Chinese herbs
Geriatric Medicine
Age is just a number.
However, there are often special concerns when living with a geriatric pet or a pet with a chronic illness. By visiting your dog or cat in their home and observing them in their own environment, professional guidance can be more individualized. In-home care is even more vital for our older pets as it eliminates the need for travel and negotiating in and out of the car. Providing veterinary therapy at home can create a stress-free option for you and your family member.
Based on your pet's needs, individual issues can be addressed using a holistic approach. These include:
Nutritional requirements
Paw protection
Temperature control
Prescription medications
Supplements
Harnesses
Mobility issues
Anxiety
Home exercises
Nutrition
Over time, we have learned that what we eat is vital to our health
and well-being. The same is true for our pets. Wholesome, fresh, species-appropriate foods are generally the best choice to ensure your pet’s optimal health. Highly processed foods can contribute to inflammatory conditions, chronic issues, and disease. By offering your pet a natural, high quality diet with minimal additives and preservatives you help their body maintain homeostasis and balance.
Supplementation
Chinese and Western herbal remedies, vitamins, and nutritional supplements are often recommended depending on your pet’s condition. These carefully chosen formulas can be used safely with regular medications and diet for a complete wellness program. Each patient is evaluated in a unique and holistic manner in order to maximize the effectiveness of all therapy components.
Herbal medicine utilizes plant extracts to treat body systems and help the body heal. Herbals are available in a variety of oral and topical formulations, making administration an easy option for you and your pet.