By Guest Author ~ Jelena Stojanovic, Canine Holistic Therapist.

 

Acupuncture is an energy based system of healing that addresses and activates the self-healing powers of body. Stimulation of Acupuncture points influence the flow of energy within the body along its energy channels (meridians), moving stagnations, resolving blockages and suppling emptiness with new energy and relieving fullness. As a result, we can reduce pain and revive disturbed organ functions.

During Acupuncture treatment, fine needles are inserted at precisely localised Acupuncture points and retained there for a certain amount of time, depending on the patient’s condition and indication. To avoid injury to the underlying tissue (nerves, blood vessels, joints or organs) this treatment should only be performed by trained and qualified Veterinary Acupuncturist.

Veterinary Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TVCM) can have helpful and supportive effects on the following conditions:

 Musculoskeletal problems (post surgery/injury rehabilitation)
 Geriatric problems (such as Arthritis, Dementia, Incontinence etc)
 Allergies and immune system disorders
 Hormonal disturbances (such as Diabetes mellitus, Cushing disease, thyroid disorders etc)
 Neurological conditions
 Psychological/emotional problems (such as pathological fear, anxiety etc)
 Disorders of respiratory tract, skin, gastrointestinal tract, urogenital tract, cardiovascular system, eyes and ears
 Tumours

Acupuncture can reduce the required dosage of conventional pharmaceutical drugs that may be necessary in the Veterinary treatment of certain medical conditions. The basic requirement for a successful treatment is a thorough medical history, examination and TCVM diagnosis.

Application of standardised needling formulas without knowledge of their background carries the risk of exacerbating the disorder instead of improving it. However, if done by experienced veterinary Acupuncturist and TCVM Therapist, needling specific points leads to the release of chemicals in the
muscles, spinal cord and brain which stimulates healing, improves circulation and reduces pain.

CHARLIE’S CASE

Charlie is an 11 year old staffy and has been my patient for 3 years. He was diagnosed with multiple joint arthritis when he was only 2 years old. When I started treating him it had progressed to a severe grade, significantly affecting his mobility and quality of life.
He was very sore, had a limp in his right front limb when climbing the stairs, he started losing muscle tissue in his hamstrings and gluteal muscles.

After his first Traditional Chinese medicine/physical assessment and Physical Therapy/Veterinary Acupuncture treatment, limping on his front leg disappeared and he was very relaxed and sleepy the rest of the day.

I have continued treating him regularly with Acupuncture and Massage, along with his prescribed medication and a good diet, helping him manage pain and ensure maximum muscular preservation, proper circulation of blood and Qi and improved mobility.

Over the years of having him in my care, I have also treated him with Veterinary Acupuncture for his Damp Heat condition, trigeminal neuralgia, post-surgery recovery and various skin issues. Both his owner and I have been very pleased with the results achieved in treating these conditions.

Together we have gone through some tough times, especially in the winter time, but due to his regular Massage and Acupuncture treatments Charlie is still an energetic and happy dog, having a few more years of ball chasing and beach walking ahead of him.

About our Guest Author:

Jelena from Balanced Dogs  is a qualified Veterinary Acupuncturist and Canine Myofunctional Therapist who treats dogs in the comfort of their own home throughout the Sydney Metro area.

She holds:

• Masters of Veterinary Science Degree, Europe
• Certificate for Canine Myofunctional Therapy, National College of Traditional Medicine, Victoria
• Postgraduate Study with College of Integrative Veterinary
  Therapies for Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Certificate in Physical Therapy for Veterinary Professionals, Dogs in Motion
• Dog Behaviourist Certificate, The Companion Animal Behavioural Institute

Additionally, she has done more than three years of volunteer work at Jacob Leezak Dog Psychology Centre, treating dogs with various mobility impairments, psychological and emotional issues. She provides home treatments for All Natural Vet Care Clinic and she volunteers at Monika’s Doggie Rescue helping dogs in need.

She has over 10 years’ experience in the practice of holistic treatment of animals through Veterinary
Acupuncture, Physical Therapy/Dog Massage, Herbal Therapy and Dietary Advice.