Integrative & Holistic Vet in Ann Arbor, MI
We think it’s important to give our pet patients as many treatment options as possible to suit their health needs. After all, your pet is unique, and a treatment that works for another pet may not work for them. This is why Ann Arbor Animal Hospital offers several different holistic treatments for dogs and cats: Chinese herbs, chiropractic, and acupuncture for dogs and cats. These modalities can be used alongside or as replacements for modern drugs and to treat various ailments.
To learn more about our holistic therapies or to make an appointment, contact us at (734) 662-4474.
Chinese Herbal Therapy for Dogs & Cats
Chinese herbs serve as complementary or alternative treatments to Western medicine. They address a variety of ailments and can be used alongside or as replacements for conventional drugs.
Some common Chinese herbs for pets include:
This herb is primarily used to stop bleeding, such as in cases of nosebleeds or internal bleeding from inoperable tumors like spleen cancer. Originating from Yunnan, this proprietary blend includes Radix Notoginseng and Rhizoma Discorae among its guarded ingredients.
This blend aids dogs with mast cell disease by improving blood and Qi circulation. It's used for dogs with multiple tumors or those unsuitable for surgery.
Aimed at enhancing immunity and strengthening Qi and blood, this is typically used for post-cancer diagnosis or chronic viral diseases in cats.
While not a traditional herb, this blend includes Reishi, Shitake, and Maitake mushrooms and green tea for immune and antioxidant support, often starting post-cancer diagnosis.
Known as horny goat weed, this herb is used to adjust kidney Yang and nourish Yin, potentially aiding in the descent of undescended testicles in young dogs.
Cat & Dog Chiropractic Services
Animal chiropractic care addresses decreased mobility in joints and the spine, focusing on restoring motion and alleviating symptoms like pain, stiffness, and gait abnormalities. By adjusting the spine's alignment through low amplitude, high-velocity thrusts, chiropractic care can enhance neurological function and overall health. Conditions often treated include hip dysplasia, arthritis, disc disease, and chronic injuries. This therapy aims to maintain proper neurotransmission, improve agility, and support the overall performance of animals.
Cat & Dog Acupuncture
At Ann Arbor Animal Hospital, Dr. Taryn Clark trained at the Chi Institute, and offers cat and dog acupuncture treatments. This ancient practice, documented as far back as the second century B.C., has gained popularity among those seeking to promote endorphin release, stimulate nerves, and help restore Qi flow, depending on treatment approach.
Acupuncture is used for many conditions, such as:
- Arthritis and joint issues
- Pain management post-surgery or from chronic conditions
- Support during cancer treatments
- Boosting the immune system
- Treating nerve dysfunction
Acupuncture is often sought after other treatments have failed or when drugs show undesirable side effects. Electroacupuncture, involving electric pulses through inserted needles, has demonstrated significant benefits in clinical studies, particularly in treating intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). About 85% of patients treated with acupuncture are older dogs suffering from musculoskeletal issues.