At Western Hills Animal Medical & Surgical Clinic, we believe that it’s important to provide our clients with as many choices as possible when it comes to caring for their animal companions. In addition to our extensive list of traditional medical services, we also offer a complete range of integrative therapies, or holistic medicine options, to provide a more comprehensive approach to animal health care. These alternative treatment options are available to aid in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions and can help your pet live a healthier, more balanced life.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
The practice of Chinese herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years in human medicine and is now also being utilized to assist our four-legged companions in much the same way. It is, essentially, the use of natural herbs derived from plants to maintain good health and treat existing illnesses. Herbal medicine can be used as an alternative to traditional medicine, or as a compliment to it and has been known to be effective in treating the following types of conditions:
- Arthritis
- Allergies
- Skin Conditions
- Reproduction Problems
- Digestive Issues
- Respiratory Conditions
- Immune System Disorders
Food Therapy
Food therapy, also known as nutrition therapy, is a form of Chinese medicine that is based on the theory that certain foods or combinations of foods can help support ongoing health, prevent illness and treat certain medical conditions. Food therapy is often used in conjunction with herbal therapy and acupuncture as a way to bring about balance in the body.
Acupuncture
For thousands of years, ancient cultures have been using acupuncture to manage pain and treat a broad range of medical conditions in humans. Now this same concept can be applied to helping our animal companions live healthier, more comfortable and balanced lives. Acupuncture is performed using tiny needles to painlessly penetrate the skin in areas that are known to target internal body function. When inserted, the needles cause a cellular reaction which triggers the body’s natural pain relief and healing tendencies.
Veterinary acupuncture can treat a significant number of ailments, including:
- Gastrointestinal Tract Issues
- Respiratory Problems
- Musculoskeletal Conditions
- Urinary Tract Disorders
- Dermatological (Skin) Conditions
While the results from acupuncture can sometimes be seen after just one treatment, the frequency and length of treatments may vary based on the condition being addressed. Our experienced veterinarians will determine the treatment protocol on a case by case basis.
Chiropractic Services
Humans turn to chiropractors to help bring their bodies back into proper alignment. Animals can suffer many of the same problems, known as subluxations, which can result in discomfort, pain, stiffness and a reduction in mobility. Veterinary chiropractic services can be used to adjust the areas where bones or joints have become misaligned, alleviating discomfort and providing a more comfortable, flexible existence for your four-legged best friend.
Therapeutic Laser
Laser therapy utilizes an intense beam of light to penetrate the body to reduce pain, improve mobility and speed healing following surgery or injury. It is a painless, non-invasive and drug-free way to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, such as arthritis, and can help improve the quality of life for your fur baby. Laser therapy can produce results almost instantly, however the number of treatments your fur baby will need will ultimately be determined by our experienced veterinarians. Ask us today whether your companion could benefit from therapeutic laser treatments.