PAW Vet Practice

Expert Advice

Expert Advice2023-10-03T02:28:44+00:00

Frequently Asked Questions

We have addressed some important topics and also answered some common questions in our FAQs section but please feel free to reach out if you have additional concerns!

Integrative medicine is a combination of traditional medicine and alternative therapies to achieve an optimal outcome. A formal definition as outlined by the National Institute of Health: “Integrative medicine is practicing medicine in a way that selectively incorporates elements of complementary and alternative medicine into comprehensive treatment plans alongside solidly orthodox methods of diagnosis and treatment.

Human acupuncture originated approximately 3000 years ago as a branch of Chinese medicine. After millennia of successes and failures, acupuncture has evolved to where it is today- a complementary tool to alleviate pain and help manage chronic illnesses. Over the years, this art form evolved to include the veterinary profession. Acupuncture involves inserting very small needles in precise locations along channels also known as “meridians.” The needles are used to help the flow of energy, “Qi” (pronounced chee) which travels along the meridians all over the body. The goal of treatment is to achieve balance. We often combine other Chinese branches of medicine such as herbology, food, Tui Na (massage), and exercise to reach equilibrium.

Our animal companions experience pain and chronic illnesses just as we do. Conditions that may respond to therapy include but are not limited to arthritis, neurologic conditions, chronic medical conditions, and behavioral conditions. Acupuncture in combination with traditional Western medicine can help achieve a superior quality of life. Most pets respond favorably to the therapeutic needles and often times relax and enjoy the session.

Dr. Monica is a small animal veterinarian with an emphasis in acupuncture and rehabilitation. She can guide you and answer some veterinary medical questions. However, if there is a need to seek an in-person consultation with your veterinarian she will recommend so at that time.

Dr. Monica does not have a pharmacy like a traditional veterinary hospital; however, she uses VetSource, an online pharmacy for prescription requests and if she needs to prescribe medications for your pet.  Click here to visit our online pharmacy.

Initial acupuncture visits last about one hour. Recheck acupuncture visits last about 45 minutes Rehabilitation initial assessments can last 1-1.5 hours and recheck rehabilitation assessments last about 1 hour.  Laser therapy time varies based on number of sites being treated and the size of the patient.  Laser therapy can last as short as 15 minutes to as long as 30 minutes.

Professional Pet Care

Pet owners trust us to look after the needs of their beloved companions. We are specialists committed to delivering the very highest of veterinary care and affection.

PAW

Mobile Veterinary Service
in South Tampa

Vet Corner

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