This form of therapy involves the use of acupuncture and herbal medicine. Modern, or Western, diagnosis and treatment is very important, but additional treatments using alternative, or Eastern, techniques can improve the outcome for many diseases that your pet may be suffering from. Dr. Julie Schell is certified in Veterinary Chinese Herbal Medicine (CVCHM).
Alternative and Complementary Therapy
As alternative therapies have become more popular with pet owners, we have added these modalities to the services we offer. Alternative therapies, which are also referred to as “integrative” or “complementary” therapies, include acupuncture, chiropractic, homeopathy, laser therapy, magnetic therapy, and massage therapy. We provide these therapies in conjunction with traditional medicine and surgery to help improve outcomes and to give us additional options for treating our patients. Please contact us if you are interested in learning more about whether these types of therapy could benefit your pet.
If your pet is suffering from conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, lameness, gastrointestinal disease, chronic health issues, or back problems, he or she might benefit from our chiropractic services. Professional chiropractic manipulation can help ease pain, improve flexibility and mobility, and even enhance organ function. Chiropractic therapy can also promote healing and improve range of motion in dogs injured during sporting events.
Chiropractic philosophy is based on the relationship of the spinal cord to the nervous system of the entire body. It primarily involves manipulation of the spinal cord but can also involve manipulation of the leg joints and skull, strengthening or stretching muscles, and post-manipulation exercise. Most animals show no signs of pain or discomfort during therapy.
Chiropractors evaluate the function and structure of the spine, extremities, and skull. Based on their examination and the pet’s clinical history, they then adjust any subluxations (vertebrae and joints that are out of alignment or abnormally positioned). Subluxations are manipulated back into a normal position by using a short “thrust” that is applied very specifically in the correct direction. Because of the expertise required for this technique, chiropractic therapy should only be performed by a qualified doctor.
We use veterinary chiropractic in conjunction with traditional therapies to give your pet the best possible outcome. To discuss whether your pet is a candidate for chiropractic therapy, please call our clinic and set up an appointment with our experienced veterinarian.
Acupuncture can be used to help improve or cure problems your pet might have, including those related to the musculoskeletal, reproductive, neurological, or gastrointestinal systems. Acupuncture can also be used to manage pain and hasten recovery after surgery.
Acupuncture, which originated in China, has been used as a therapeutic treatment option for thousands of years. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the body is composed of several pathways called “meridians,” along which energy flows. When disease is present, energy is interrupted, or unbalanced. Stimulating acupuncture points along the meridians can restore energy flow, resulting in improved or cured health problems.
Because the needles used in acupuncture are extremely thin, they cause minimal or no pain and are generally well tolerated by pets. However, incorrect placement of the needle or inadequate sterilization can result in pain or complications, which is why you should only have a qualified practitioner perform acupuncture on your pet.
To determine if your pet’s condition(s) may be responsive to this treatment modality, please set up an exam with our doctor. Treatment options and costs will be gone over the phone with you by one of our knowledgable team members.
