The doctor will review all of your family veterinarian’s records for your pet, take a detailed history of your pet’s lifestyle and specifics of the presenting medical condition, and then perform a thorough TCVM exam. This exam is different than a Western medical exam, and uses multiple clues to identify the internal imbalance that presents to us as illness. The actual treatment with acupuncture will be discussed, and the doctor will answer any questions you may have. Most pets barely show that they notice the placement of the actual needles, but they do have some sensation as the needles reach the target placement. The length of time the needles are left in place varies with the condition being treated, and the personality of the pet. The practice of acupuncture includes other related modalities, such as electroacupuncture, aqua-acupuncture, laser, and moxibustion, and their use is dependent on the specific patient and condition. Expect your first consultation and acupuncture session to last about an hour to an hour and a half.
Acupuncture and your Pet
Herbal Therapy
Herbal medications can be an effective long term treatment for many chronic illnesses, especially when Western medications alone have not resulted in the desired outcome, or when Western medications are not well tolerated by the patient. Herbals are often integrated into a TCVM treatment plan to achieve lasting improvement. These medications are typically given for months, and are usually well tolerated. Because herbals do not have the same FDA requirements as most Western medications, it is important to rely on the expertise of trusted sources for purity, standardization and efficacy. Close monitoring of patients is necessary for optimal results, and herbal recommendations often change over time.
What to expect for your first consultation . . .
What to expect after your pet's first acupuncture . . .
Acupuncture is a gentle, but moving experience for your pet. Qi flows better after acupuncture and the results may be seen immediately. Sometimes, especially with very chronic problems, the pet may actually seem a bit worse for 24-48 hours, and then show improvement. Your pet may also be very sleepy for 24 hours after a session. This is not unexpected. Think of it as starting an exercise program – you work out for the first time, and you are sore and tired afterward, but with repeated exercise, it becomes easier and your body improves. And just as with exercise, one workout session does not a body builder make. With acupuncture, positive results typically can be seen with one to three sessions, and build from there.
