There are many services fallin under the umbrella of Western medicine now being complemented using Eastern medicine, or more specifically, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM). This area of medicine offers alternative therapies (also known as integrative therapies) that can work in conjunction with traditional Western treatment plans to deliver a better health outcome. Providing alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and laser therapy for dogs and cats offer additional toolboxes to work with to benefit four legged patients.
Alternative Therapies For Dogs And Cats include:
Acupuncture for Dogs & Cats
Acupuncture is a well-known modality in human integrative medicine, and now it is gaining traction in veterinary medicine, as well. Dogs and cats have been found to respond well to acupuncture therapy, which uses exceedingly thin, fine needles that are placed at different points of the body called “meridians.” These areas consist of blood vessels, nerve endings, and connective tissue, and stimulating them with the acupuncture needles causes the release of various chemicals, including endorphins. This can create a healing effect and help to relieve various ailments, including muscle spasms, back pain, nausea, and allergies.
Acupuncture For Dogs And Cats
Pet Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a part of our multimodal approach to pain management and relief, using light energy to improve circulation in the body, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the healing process.
A multitude of acute and chronic physical conditions can benefit from laser treatment, including:
- Arthritis (inflamed joints)
- Ear infections
- Hot spots and lick granulomas
- Sprains, strains, and sore muscles
- Broken bones
- Surgical incisions
- Cuts, burns, and abrasions
Skin infections
Treatment times and frequencies differ based on the nature of your pet’s condition, and their overall treatment response. Acute injuries or a surgical incision can often be treated in 1-6 sessions, with treatment time varying depending on the pet and the condition. Chronic conditions may require maintenance treatments 1-2 times per month after the initial frequent therapy to improve the pet’s quality of life.
Pet Laser Therapy
Chinese Herbal Medicine & Food Therapy
In addition to acupuncture and pet laser therapy, tailored herbal formulas and customized diets to restore balance to the body and its overall functioning can be explored.
Can My Pet Be Treated with Alternative Therapies?
Research the therapies, the vet and their skill levels but explore all options to benefit your pet
The lists above are not exhaustive but do your research.