Integrative veterinary medicine is a whole-body approach that incorporates both western and eastern modalities. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) includes acupuncture, acupressure, chiropractic, massage, herbs and nutrition. There are also alternative therapies such as cold laser, homeopathy, flower remedies, essential oils, Tellington Touch (TTouch) and water therapy that your dog can benefit greatly from.
Acupuncture and Acupressure have been used for centuries. Whether using traditional needles, laser acupuncture or pressure points, the goal is to get energy moving and restore the body. Blockage of any type is where pain and disease start. There are specific energy channels, or meridians, where energy flows throughout the body. Acupuncture or acupressure is applied in specific areas depending on what is going on in the body.
Chiropractic is also about clearing blockages, but the focus is on the spine and how it affects the nervous system. Every organ in our body is regulated by the nervous system, the same is true for your pet. The spine is protected by vertebrae which are connected by muscles and ligaments. If the muscles or ligaments are tight, the spine is not able to move as it should and vice versa.
Massage works on the soft tissues of the body, which works hand in hand with chiropractic. Massage increases the flow of nutrients to the muscles and aids the body in getting rid of toxins. It also reduces inflammation, and stimulates circulation.
Laser therapy, also called low-level laser, cold laser therapy and Class IV laser, uses light to stimulate cell regeneration and increase blood circulation. It’s done on the surface of the skin and there is no need to shave the fur. Hot laser on the other hand, is has a higher risk of cuts or burn due to the intensity of the light. Cold laser is what is typically done on dogs and cats.
Herbs, the root of medicine, when given properly, can do wonders for your pet, for treating and preventing disease, without the use of synthetic drugs.
Homeopathy was developed in the 1700’s in Germany. It’s a medical system with the basic belief that “like cures like It claims a substance that causes the symptoms of disease in healthy people would cure similar symptoms in sick people. Homeopathy comes in various forms such as sugar pellets, liquid drops, creams, gels and tablets.
Tellington Touch (TTouch), created by Linda Tellington-Jones, is a technique to help your dog’s physical and emotional health. It can help with behavior problems, pain, circulation and the clearing of energy flow.
Water therapy includes swimming, treadmills and underwater massage, all wonderful ways to help your dog with muscle tone, pain management and relaxation.
