Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific points, usually through the insertion of specialized, sterile needles into the patient. Acupuncture points lie along the body’s acupuncture channels, or meridians, and the points that are chosen depend upon an individual patient’s specific needs.

With few exceptions, animals not only tolerate needles, but enjoy acupuncture treatment because of the relaxation they experience soon after the needles are placed. In cases where animals do not tolerate needles, stimulation of points can be done with a specialized light device.

Initially, acupuncture treatments may be scheduled weekly and then taper over time. Many patients continue to receive acupuncture on a regular basis to maintain balance and health.

Herbal Supplements

Chinese herbal supplements utilize a combination of individual herbs that have been developed over thousands of years, each of which has a different effect on the body. Herbs are chosen based on the pattern that a patient presents with and may be complemented with acupuncture treatments.

Unlike western medications, where side effects are common, herbal supplements are a natural treatment that have been shown to be effective in treating many chronic health conditions without harsh side effects. These health conditions include digestive problems, cardiac disease, cancer, arthritis, dermatology, respiratory issues, and orthopedic disease and injuries.

Chinese herbal medicine is also commonly used to improve the quality of life for geriatric patients and those diagnosed with terminal cancer. Herbal therapy can be used safely in combination with almost all Western medications.

Food Therapy

Food therapy involves tailoring a diet to improve the overall health of an animal and can be classified into one of three categories:

1. Health Promotion and Prevention - to improve health on a regular basis and prevent seasonal and health related problems.

2. Disease Treatment - to directly treat clinical disease including skin problems, inflammation and immune deficiencies.

3. Adjunct Therapy - to complement primary treatments (acupuncture, herbal medications, western medications) of disease such as urinary tract issues, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, kidney disease and liver disease.

Recommended changes may include a raw diet that can be prepared at home or purchased. If you are interested in making your own home-prepared diet, there are several resources created by veterinary nutritionists such as Balanceit.com. Or, if you prefer to purchase, there are many excellent choices of frozen, dehydrated, and freeze-dried raw or lightly cooked diets available. They meet or exceed nutritional standards for a complete and balanced diet through the Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Whole food and natural supplements can enhance your animal’s nutrition and improve the overall health of your loved animal.

Energy Medicine

Reiki is an alternative therapy that uses Reiki healing energy to help animals rebalance their physical, mental, emotional, and energetic wellbeing. Animal Reiki is based on the traditional Japanese Usui Reiki and is a form of meditation. It can help physically and emotionally sensitive animals release tension and promote a sense of wellbeing. Reiki therapy can be stand-alone treatments but are also incorporated into other holistic care.