You will find answers to the most commonly asked questions below. Please contact me if you have any other questions that you would like answered.
Acupuncture is the placement of fine, sterilised needles into specific points in the body. These needles activate parts of the neuro-endocrine system to produce a healing response.
In many instances the animal will not feel the needles being placed. There may be a brief moment of sensitivity but you usually find that once the needles have been placed many animals will relax and feel sleepy.
Acupuncture can only be performed on animals by a qualified veterinary surgeon, whose knowledge of anatomy and physiology will ensure the safe placement of needles. In many respects as there are no medications being administered acupuncture is a very safe therapy so can be used where there are contraindications for medication or surgery.
Many animals become very relaxed and may be tired for up to 24 hours after treatment. Some may be initially worse after treatment but generally then improve over a couple of days
Many insurance companies will cover the cost of acupuncture. It is advisable to contact them prior to commencing therapy in order to be fully aware of their terms and conditions.
When treating using herbs usually a combination of herbs are used rather than just an individual herb. A useful combination is Echinacea and Marshmallow for treatment of kennel cough in dogs. Herbs commonly used in arthritis include Boswellia, Turmeric and Ginger. Importantly each animal is treated as an individual so the herbs used to treat one animal will not generally be the same for another animal with the same condition.
Herbs can be very effective when used appropriately. Many chronic conditions can hugely benefit from treatment with herbal medicine. Herbs can be used alongside conventional medicine and can in some instances help to decrease their side effects.
I am a fully trained veterinary practitioner with a history of excellent patient care. All my remedies are thoroughly researched and I will only administer what I know has been proven to work. I use medical grade herbs from reputable sources and can therefore guarantee their potency and quality. Most herbs are very safe for chronic use. It is important to seek advice from a veterinary surgeon trained in the use of herbs prior to their use as only a trained vet will understand the diagnosis along with any contraindications and potential side effects. There are many other sites giving advice but please beware these people are not legally allowed to prescribe herbs for animal use.
Using the correct knowledge of herbal medicine the potential side effects are minimised. Usually the dosages of herbs used initially are very low and can be titrated upwards to suit an individuals needs. Again obtaining herbs only from a veterinary surgeon will enable their safe use.
We look forward to helping with any queries you may have regarding any of the services we offer