Holistic Medicine

A traditional approach to health & wellness.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used in China for over 3500 years to maintain health and wellness in both humans and animals. While conventional Western medicine and Chinese medicine address the same physical disorders, they do so in very different ways. The doctor of Western medicine treats specific diseases or disorders, whereas the doctor of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) attempts to identify and address the underlying cause of the disease. The goal of veterinary TCM is to restore the pet to a state of balance so they are able to remain healthy.

How does TCM work?

TCM includes herbs, acupuncture , food therapy, and body work. Herbal therapy and acupuncture are typically used together, as the combined effects are greater than using one of them alone. Chinese herbs can be used to treat most conditions recognized by conventional medicine. They can be used alone or in combination with other therapies or conventional prescriptions for an enhanced effect.

Why TCM?

TCM herbs are especially helpful in the treatment of chronic diseases and conditions common to geriatric animals. They can be used to relieve pain, help improve and restore organ function, as well as strengthen and support the immune system. TCM herbal prescriptions are specific for the individual patient and are used to correct the root cause of an illness, not just to control the symptoms.

Veterinary Western Herbal Medicine

Our doctors have extensive training and experience in veterinary traditional Chinese medicine.

Western herbal medicine is similar to TCM in that it also examines the patient for imbalances and seeks to bring the body back into a state of balanced health. Treatment is aimed at correcting the imbalance through proper lifestyle, diet and herbal therapy. Many of the herbs used in WHM can be found in both TCM and Ayurvedic medicine.

The History of Veterinary Western Herbal Medicine

The oldest known use of plants as a form of treatment dates back to prehistoric times, when herbs were discovered in graves over 60,000 years old. Ayurveda, developed in India over 5000 years ago, is considered to be the very first medical system known to man. Chinese medicine is likely the next system of medicine that was developed 3500 years ago.

A shift in practice

During the 17th and 18th century, there was increased use of chemical medicine as well as heroic medicine. Unlike the name suggests, heroic medicine involved using materials such as animal feces and burnt animal matter in medicines. It also utilized procedures such as bloodletting and the administration of dangerous chemicals such as mercury, antimony, and arsenic. Thankfully, there was a rebellion against the use of these barbaric procedures during the 1800’s and herbal medicine experienced a revival.

Moving Backwards

Unfortunately, during the 20th century, due to pressure from the American Medical Association and drug companies, chemical drugs began to once again dominate the health industry. People felt that herbal medicine was no longer needed because all chemicals could be synthesized by extracting them from the plant.

Finding solid footing

If you’re interested in Chinese medicine for your pet in the Sarasota, FL and Lakewood Ranch areas, contact us today to schedule your pet’s consultation!

Fortunately, since the 1960’s herbal medicine has experienced a resurgence in popularity, due primarily to its safety and cost. At Sarasota Animal Medical Center , we find that herbal medicine can often treat conditions where conventional medicine has failed.

Acupuncture for Dogs & Cats

Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of therapy in the world and can effectively treat both psychological and physical problems. It is an especially useful in the treatment of conditions that involve paralysis, noninfectious inflammation (such as allergies), and pain. Acupuncture is also quite useful for strengthening the immune system as well as treating and preventing diseases. Having zero side effects, acupuncture is an excellent treatment for both chronic and acute conditions.

Why TCM?

For dogs and cats, the following are some of the general conditions which may be treated with acupuncture:

Musculoskeletal problems, such as arthritis or vertebral disc pathology
Skin problems such as lick granuloma
Respiratory problems such as feline asthma
Gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea
Select reproductive problems

Scientifically proven to reduce pain

What can Acupuncture do for your pet?

Numerous scientific studies have shown acupuncture to be particularly effective for reducing pain. By causing the release of endorphins into the blood stream of the patient, acupuncture can provide immediate relief. Acupuncture also causes increased blood flow to the affected area, allowing the body to naturally heal itself.

Real results with Acupuncture

In a German study of people (The GERAC study), 300,000 patients suffering from chronic back pain, knee arthritis and migraine headaches were evaluated to compare acupuncture with the conventional treatments of steroids, physiotherapy, and other pain medications. The results showed that acupuncture was twice as effective in reducing pain as the conventional treatments.

Making lives better

The same acupuncture medicine used on people can also be used on pets with similar positive and lasting effects. At Sarasota Animal Medical Center , we always seek to utilize alternative, natural veterinary solutions whenever possible, as opposed to drugs that may be harmful.

Making lives better

The same acupuncture medicine used on people can also be used on pets with similar positive and lasting effects. At Sarasota Animal Medical Center , we always seek to utilize alternative, natural veterinary solutions whenever possible, as opposed to drugs that may be harmful.