In an era when there’s a pharmaceutical answer to almost any ailment, drug free therapies to help pets experiencing loss of mobility and pain are effective natural treatments. Pharmaceuticals are not the only answer to an effective treatment in veterinary cases like post-surgical healing, wound care, management of pain and swelling, or joint disease. Sometimes natural options are necessary due to possible drug interactions, unwanted side effects, or simply a pet parent’s preference in care.
Acupuncture and cold laser therapy are two drug free treatment options with proven results. Cold laser therapy is use of a low-level laser which does not require sedation and takes only minutes to administer to the affected area. Other than wearing protective eyewear, the dog or cat can rest comfortably in the arms of a pet parent or veterinary technician. Depending on the medical situation, a series of applications, spaced over days or weeks, is usually recommended for full treatment.
Protons within the laser beam that’s applied to the affected area aid healing by increasing cellular function to help with better absorption of nutrients and cell reproduction.
Frankie is ready for a cold laser therapy treatment to help with stiffness in his back.
Cold laser therapy is effective in treating (surgical and traumatic) wounds and lesions, mobility issues cased by muscle strain, fractures, joint disease and injuries to tendons or ligaments, arthritis, and nerve damage.
It works by reducing inflammation of soft tissue, increasing blood flow, releasing fluid build-up in body tissue (edema), easing pain, and decreasing bacteria.
Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine that can be applied to veterinary medicine in the same way by promoting the body to heal itself naturally. Tiny acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin where nerve bundles and blood vessels are located—called acupuncture or energy points—to improve blood circulation, oxygen flow, nerve stimulation, and the release of hormones that help relieve inflammation and pain.
Dr. MacDonald places an acupuncture needle on Wash.
Acupuncture has gained acceptance with noticeable results. Dr. Ashlea Erk and Dr. Dave MacDonald are certified veterinary acupuncturists at Doylestown Veterinary Hospital. Numerous pets have received acupuncture treatments with owners reporting positive changes after a couple sessions.
Integrative veterinary medicine at Doylestown Veterinary Hospital is a comprehensive approach to wellness and healing where the primary focus is the dog or cat, and conventional and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM) is applied for the best treatment outcomes. Alternate or holistic veterinary medicine includes natural, drug-free therapies including acupuncture, laser treatments, food therapy and herbal remedies.
Call Doylestown Veterinary Hospital today at 215-345-6000 to schedule an Exam & Consultation to discover how acupuncture or cold laser therapy can help your pet.
