Pet Care FAQ's

Musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, back pain, disc disease (slipped disc) are some of the most common conditions treated. This type of medicine can also help with gastrointestinal illnesses such as vomiting, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease and anorexia. Other conditons that can benefit are: behavioral issues like anxiety or fear of thunderstorms/fireworks, chronic kidney failure, pancreatitic insufficiency, and allergies. Older pet's that have issues with weakness in hindlegs, changes in appetite, decreased energy, decreased activity, arthritis, stiffness, soreness can also be helped.

Yes, acupuncture can be done safely. Chinese herbal medications can often be safely taken with many western medications. Sometimes, as pets respond to treatment the dosages of many medications can safely be reduced or even eliminated under veterinary supervision.

Aquapuncture involves the injection of a specific liquid into an acupuncture point. A very small gauge needle is used for the procedure. Depending on the condition being treated different liquid medications are used. Sometimes a Vitamin B-12 solution is injected, or a small volume of an intravenous fluid, or a homeopathic formula like Traumeel. The solution will slowly be absorbed and thus stimulates that acupuncture point.

Electrical acupuncture involves attaching electrical leads from an electrical acupuncture unit directly to the acupuncture needles. This increases the stimulation to the body and enhances the overall effect of the treatment. It is most commonly used for animals suffering from disc disease/back pain, arthritis and other painful conditions.

Food is an integral component of Chinese medicine. Modifying the diet can be beneficial when treating different conditons. Sometimes specific ingredients can be added to the diet whereas in other situations completely changing the diet is the most ideal situation.

Sedation is not necessary for acupuncture treatments. Most animals relax during the treatment sessions, some will even fall asleep.

This depends significantly on the condition being treated- the longer the dog or cat has had the condition the longer it may take for significant improvement to occur. Sometimes it may take 4 to 5 treatments to start seeing a response.

The initial appointment can last about 1 ½ hours. This includes a thorough medical history, exam, acupuncture treatment if desired ,and a thorough discussion of treatment plan. This allows for your pet to be treated in a relaxed manner in his/her home.

This depends on the condition being treated. The smallest number of needles are used and your pet's comfort level is carefully monitored throughout the entire treatment. If at any point during the session your pet indicates that he/she would like to be 'done' then the needles are removed.

When the acupuncture needles are placed he/she may not feel anything at all or may feel a slight " pinprick" . If it is apparent that your pet is uncomfortable with a particular needle, then that acupuncture needle can be removed and the uncomfortable session would subside. Most pets are very relaxed during a treatment and some fall asleep.

After a treatment session most patients will be very relaxed and take a nap. Some will feel energized and want to play. A very small percentage mabye a little sore. If this occurs it will only usually lst around 24 hours. This effect is similar to what can occur after a deep tissue massage.

Yes, Dr. Michaele Teston can teach you massage techniques that you can do at home to benefit your pet's health.

Yes, the Chinese Herbal Medications I prescribe are very safe. The primary pharmacy Dr. Michaele Teston uses is veterinary Chinese herbal pharmacy. All of the herbs used are carefully monitored and tested by a university laboratory to ensure their safety, quality and purity.

If your pet has had the condition for awhile( several months to several years ) then he/she may need up to 6 treatments to achieve the most benefit. After this, he/she may only need an acupuncture treatment periodically to maintain. If your pet has a recent illness then he/she may only need a couple of treatments.

Chinese medicine can be used to help with many different diseases. Ask Dr. Michaele Teston to discuss your pets condition with you before scheduling an appointment.

Most diseases can benefit to some degree however, some conditions do respond better than others. In Home Holistic Veterinary Care is happy to discuss your pets condition and offer the best options. If Dr. Michaele Teston feel that she cannot offer the best treatment option for your pet, she will refer you to the appropriate professional.

If your pet is too nervous for acupunture needles to be placed, that is okay. He/she can still be treated with herbal medication and food therapy. At In Home Holistic Veterinary Care can also teach you how to do acupressure on your pet as well.