Library
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Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that focuses on restoring the energy balance in the body to promote healing. The technique requires the insertion of fine needles into the dog's body at specified points, called acupuncture points, where nerves and blood vessels converge. It is often used to treat dogs with arthritis and joint inflammation and may reduce the amount of medication a dog needs for these conditions. This handout explains how the treatment works and what to expect when your pet sees a veterinary acupuncturist.
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Extracorporeal shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a treatment that uses high energy sound waves to exert changes in the target tissues. In specific situations it can decrease pain and increase healing. Conditions that can be treated, types of shockwave therapy, contraindications and adverse effects are discussed.
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Platelet-rich plasma or PRP is a form of regenerative medicine where the platelet and protein components of blood are retrieved from a patient and then injected back into the patient at the site of inflammation. PRP contains growth factors that appear to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. The procedure is not yet widely available and should only be performed by a veterinarian with specialized equipment and special training in this area.
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A supplement is a concentrated nutrient source that is added to a basic diet for either a nutritional or a therapeutic effect. Effective use of supplements requires the consideration of patient factors, such as the organ system that needs support, and product factors, such as dosage, safety, efficacy and balance.
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As a form of rehabilitation, massage therapy is the application of specific hand movements on a patient to improve muscle and joint function by relieving tension, spasm, or other restrictions to proper motion.
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A supplement is a concentrated ingredient that is added to the diet for nutritional or therapeutic benefits. Your best source of professional nutritional advice is a licensed veterinarian who is knowledgeable about supplements.
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Homeopathy is a distinct philosophy of medicine that has its roots in eighteenth-century Germany, and subsequently spread to Europe, India, Australia, South America, the United States, and Canada. The underlying basis of homeopathy is the principle that "like cures like": the idea that a substance given at a toxic dose can produce a certain set of symptoms, but given in much lower doses, it can cure the same set of symptoms, regardless of their perceived cause. As veterinary homeopathy gains acceptance, there are an increasing number of veterinarians in private practice who possess the necessary training and experience.
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The term 'nutraceutical' was coined to represent compounds found in food and herbs that are not technically considered nutrients, such as vitamins or minerals, but may have a profoundly beneficial impact on the health of the body. Common examples of nutraceuticals include glucosamine, which is used in the treatment of arthritic conditions for both dogs and cats, and antioxidant compounds, that help in the prevention of cancer.