Treating Arthritis Naturally: Shockwave Therapy

Arthritis affects 1 in 5 adult dogs and a growing number of cats, especially as they age. If your pet is slowing down, struggling to climb stairs, or showing signs of pain after exercise, osteoarthritis could be the cause.

Common signs of arthritis in pets include:

• Limping or favoring one limb
• Difficulty standing up or lying down
• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump into the car
• Decreased interest in play or exercise
• Muscle atrophy or weight gain
• Behavioral changes (irritability, restlessness)

Shockwave therapy can heal arthritis in your pet

NSAIDS (such as carprofen, deramaxx, and galliprant) or steroids (like prednisone or prednisolone) are typically utilized in pets. These can have a horrible impact on the liver and kidneys of any pet.  Additionally, they do NOT reverse joint degeneration. Studies suggest that shockwave therapy offers more than just temporary relief—it can slow progression of arthritis and stimulate actual healing.

It’s  heartbreaking to watch our once-active companions struggle to move, play, or get comfortable. That’s why it’s so important to explore options beyond just medications—especially those that support natural healing and long-term comfort.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

In veterinary medicine, shockwave therapy is used to treat:

• Canine osteoarthritis (1)
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Non-union fractures or delayed healing bones
• Chronic PAIN – such as back pain
• Post-surgical healing – especially after a knee or hip surgery
• Tendon and ligament injuries – like cranial cruciate ligament tears (CCL tears)

This makes it one of the most promising natural arthritis treatments for dogs and cats—especially when combined with physical rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments!

How Does Shockwave Therapy Help Arthritis?

Shockwave therapy addresses arthritis at the source by:

• Reducing inflammation  Shockwave decreases inflammatory markers such as COX-2 and substance P, helping to reduce swelling and pain (3)
• Stimulating collagen production and tissue regeneration (4)
• Increasing blood flow to joints and surrounding tissues  This includes the growth of new blood vessels—which is critical for delivering nutrients to damaged joints (3)
• Modulating pain through nerve desensitization  By desensitizing nerves and decreasing local pain receptors, ESWT offers lasting relief without pharmaceuticals (2).

In summary, this holistic therapy doesn’t just mask symptoms—it promotes actual healing.

The Natural Choice for Pain Relief

One of the greatest advantages of shockwave therapy for pets is that it is:

• Non-invasive
• Drug-free
• Performed without anesthesia!
• Well-tolerated—even relaxing for many pets (including both cats AND dogs!)

For pet parents seeking a natural arthritis treatment without relying on long-term medications, shockwave offers real hope.

It’s also safe to combine shockwave with other integrative therapies, including acupuncture, laser therapy, hydrotherapy, and nutritional support—making it a powerful tool in holistic veterinary care.

What to Expect: A Typical Treatment Plan

• Treatments take 10–30 minutes.
• Usually 4–8 sessions, spaced at least 72 hours apart.

• Improvements are often noticeable within the first few treatments and continue for several months as tissue remodeling progresses.

The pet lies comfortably on a mat or padded surface while the practitioner applies the handheld probe to the affected area.

Some pets even fall asleep during treatment—it’s that gentle.  Watch little Emi in the video during her shockwave treatments above!

Conclusion

Arthritis doesn’t have to mean a life of pain or pills for your pet. Shockwave therapy offers a safe, effective, and natural alternative that targets the root cause of joint degeneration and encourages healing from within.

At Healing Paws Center in Fort Lauderdale, we’ve seen incredible transformations. From senior dogs who couldn’t climb stairs, to athletic dogs with chronic elbow pain, to cats with hip dysplasia—we’ve witnessed pets regain their joy, movement, and vitality thanks to shockwave therapy.

If your pet is showing signs of arthritis, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how shockwave therapy can give your furry friend a new lease on life—naturally.

References:

1. Haussler, K. K., et al. “Short-term clinical effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in dogs with hip osteoarthritis.” The Canadian Veterinary Journal11 (2012): 1187–1191.
2. Kieves, N. R., et al. “Extracorporeal shockwave therapy in veterinary medicine.” Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice5 (2017): 1161–1175.
3. Wang, C. J., et al. “Biological mechanism of musculoskeletal shockwaves.” Journal of Orthopaedic Research6 (2003): 983–989.
4. Dahlberg, J., et al. “Extracorporeal shockwave therapy increases subchondral bone porosity in osteoarthritic joints.” Veterinary Surgery4 (2005): 359–364.
5. Lopes, M. A. F., et al. “Clinical use of shockwave therapy in dogs with hip osteoarthritis.” Veterinary Record17 (2014): 438

The post Treating Arthritis Naturally: Shockwave Therapy appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

Fecal Microbiome Transplants for Dogs and Cats

If your pet suffers from chronic digestive issues, allergies, or even anxiety, the solution might come from an unexpected source—a fecal microbiome transplant (FMT). While the idea may sound unusual, this cutting-edge, natural therapy is transforming the way veterinarians support gut health in dogs and cats in Fort Lauderdale.

At Healing Paws Center in Fort Lauderdale, we take a holistic and science-backed approach to healing. One of the most exciting tools in our wellness toolbox is the fecal microbiota transplant, a safe and effective therapy to restore gut balance and boost overall health.

By improving the fecal microbiome, you have improve the overall health of your pet in so many ways!

What Is a Fecal Microbiome Transplant?

A fecal microbiome transplant (also called fecal microbiota transplantation) involves transferring healthy, filtered gut bacteria from a screened donor animal into the digestive system of a sick or imbalanced pet.

At Healing Paws Center we utilize a unique combination of capsules, enemas, as well as ozone therapy.  Your pet will not need to be put under anesthesia.  The entire process takes about 30 minutes.

FMT works by repopulating the gut with healthy bacteria, restoring balance to the microbiome, the ecosystem of trillions of bacteria, fungi, and microbes in your pet’s digestive tract.

Why Gut Health Matters for Pets

The gut does more than just digest food. It’s central to your pet’s:

• Immune system function (over 70% of immunity lives in the gut) (2)
• Inflammation regulation, especially for cancer patients
• Skin health/ allergies (4)
• Mental health via the gut-brain axis (3)

A disrupted gut microbiome (dysbiosis) has been linked to a wide range of diseases in pets, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), allergies, chronic diarrhea, and behavior changes (5).

 Conditions FMT May Help in Dogs and Cats

Many chronic or difficult-to-treat conditions are linked to imbalances in the gut.

Dogs and Cats With:

• **Chronic diarrhea and Chronic vomiting such as IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
• ***Skin allergies or yeast overgrowth (4)
• Antibiotic-associated GI issues
• Excessive gas or bloating
• ****Cancer
• Recurring infections (e.g., Clostridium perfringens) (1)

In a 2020 study, dogs with chronic enteropathy who received FMT showed improved stool consistency and decreased clinical symptoms WITHIN DAYS!

 Is FMT Safe for Pets?

Yes—when performed by a qualified veterinarian using carefully screened donors, FMT is safe and well-tolerated.

At Healing Paws Center, our donor animals:

• Are healthy, vaccinated, and parasite-free
• Eat high-quality diets
• Are tested for pathogens like parvovirus, Giardia, Salmonella, and Clostridium spp.
  (FECAL Microbiota Transplantation Guidelines, ESVM, 2020)

Benefits of FMT in Pets

1. Restores Gut Balance

Corrects dysbiosis caused by antibiotics, chronic illness, stress, etc. (5).

2. Reduces Chronic Digestive Issues

Improves stool consistency, reduces gas and bloating, and calms inflammation (1)

3. Supports Allergy and Skin Health

Gut imbalance is a root contributor to skin allergies and immune reactivity (6).

4. Boosts Immune Function

A diverse microbiome enhances immune tolerance and reduces systemic inflammation (2).  In human oncology, FMT has been shown to turn non-responders into responders to immunotherapies (like anti–PD-1), improving outcomes in melanoma—suggesting a potential model for pets.  (8)

A recent study showed that dogs undergoing CHOP chemotherapy (vincristine + prednisone) for lymphoma developed significant gut dysbiosis—altered microbial composition and function—linked with post-chemo GI disturbances (7)

5. Improves Mood and Behavior

Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, which influence behavior. Many owners report calmer, happier pets post-FMT (3).

 How Does FMT Compare to Probiotics?

While probiotics are helpful, they contain only a limited number of microbial strains. FMT delivers a diverse, living microbial community, much more reflective of a healthy natural gut microbiome (9).

Think of probiotics as a handful of seeds, while FMT is like transplanting a thriving, mature garden.

 Is FMT Right for Your Pet?

If your pet has tried special diets, supplements, or medications with limited success, fecal microbiota transplantation may be the missing link. It is especially valuable for:

• Recurrent GI or skin issues
• Post-antibiotic recovery
• Food sensitivities or IBD
• Cancer patients
• Behavioral issues tied to gut imbalance

At Healing Paws Center, we tailor every treatment plan with a holistic, integrative approach, using evidence-based therapies like FMT, acupuncture, ozone therapy, supplements, and nutrition.

Resources:

1. Chaitman, J., Jergens, A. E., Gaschen, F., Garcia-Mazcorro, J., Marks, S. L., Maradiaga, N., … & Suchodolski, J. S. (2020). Fecal microbiota transplantation for treatment of dogs with chronic enteropathy: A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.
   Journal: Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 34(6), 2125–2133.  https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15776
2. Mondo, E., Marliani, G., Accorsi, P. A., Cocchi, M., & Di Leone, A. (2019).
   Role of gut microbiota in dog and cat’s health and diseases.
   Open Veterinary Journal, 9(3), 253–258.
   https://doi.org/10.4314/ovj.v9i3.10 ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+4
3. Bailey, Michael T., et al. “Exposure to a Social Stressor Alters the Structure of the Intestinal Microbiota: Implications for Stressor-Induced Immunomodulation.” Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, vol. 25, no. 3, 2011, pp. 397–407. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2010.10.023.
4. Sugita, Kengo, et al. “Single Oral Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Induces Clinical and Microbial Changes in Dogs with Atopic Dermatitis.” Scientific Reports, vol. 13, no. 1, 2023, article no. 1272. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-28397-w.
5. Suchodolski, Jan S. “Intestinal Microbiota of Dogs and Cats: A Bigger World than We Thought.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, vol. 46, no. 1, 2016, pp. 163–173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2015.09.001.
6. Rodrigues Hoffmann, Aline, et al. “The Skin Microbiome in Healthy and Allergic Dogs.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, vol. 44, no. 3, 2014, pp. 521–526. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2014.03.003.
7. Aragon, Juan, et al. “Impacts of Vincristine and Prednisolone Chemotherapy on the Canine Gut Microbiota in Dogs Undergoing Treatment for Lymphoma.” Veterinary and Comparative Oncology, 2025, https://doi.org/10.1111/vco.13063.
8. Baruch, Erez N., et al. “Fecal Microbiota Transplant Promotes Response in Immunotherapy-Refractory Melanoma Patients.” Science, vol. 371, no. 6529, 2021, pp. 602–609. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.abb5920.
9. Weese, J. Scott, and Murray D. Jelinski. “Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Veterinary Medicine.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, vol. 52, no. 1, 2022, pp. 183–198. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2021.08.008.

The post Fecal Microbiome Transplants for Dogs and Cats: A Natural Way to Heal the Gut appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

Why Vitamin D? 

When it comes to your pet’s health, most owners know to keep up with vaccines, heartworm tests, and dental cleanings. But one crucial part of wellness often goes overlooked: Vitamin D levels!

Vitamin D is not just a “bonus” nutrient — it’s an essential part of your pet’s immune, skeletal, and even cardiovascular health.

And unlike humans, dogs and cats can’t synthesize enough Vitamin D from sunlight alone, making it entirely dependent on diet and supplementation.

So why should you test it?

Why Vitamin D Matters for Pets

Vitamin D (specifically 25-hydroxyvitamin D) is essential for multiple key processes in the body, including:

• Immune response – it plays a role in fighting infection and inflammation
  • Low Vitamin D levels have been associated with increased inflammation and decreased survival in critically ill dogs. (2)
  • Vitamin D is an immunomodulator that helps prevent immune overreactions. Testing is especially relevant in pets with: allergies, chronic dermatitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and autoimmune arthritis or IMHA
• Heart health – deficiencies have been linked to serious conditions like cardiomyopathy and kidney disease
  • In one study, lower Vitamin D levels were also associated with a higher risk of adverse cardiac events. (6)
• Kidney health
  • Low Vitamin D levels are commonly found in dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), potentially contributing to secondary hyperparathyroidism, poor phosphorus regulation, and progression of renal damage (1)
• Calcium and phosphorus balance – crucial for strong bones and teeth
• Muscle strength and nerve function

Low levels of Vitamin D can silently contribute to:

• Chronic inflammation
• Weak bones or dental issues
• Increased risk of infections
• Poor healing or post-surgical recovery

Are Some Pets at Greater Risk?

Yes! Your pet may be more likely to have low Vitamin D if they:

• Eat primarily homemade, raw, or limited-ingredient diets OR commercial diets
  • Even many commercial pet foods do not meet ideal Vitamin D targets despite meeting AAFCO minimums (3)!
  • Vitamin D levels in food do not always correlate with blood levels in pets, meaning dietary intake alone may be an unreliable indicator of sufficiency. (5)
• Have chronic conditions like kidney or liver disease or CANCER!
• Are aging or immunocompromised
• Have frequent infections, joint issues, or low energy levels

How is Vitamin D Tested in Pets?

Healing Paws Center can perform a simple blood test can measure serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, the most accurate marker of Vitamin D status. It’s often included in our broader nutritional or wellness panel.

At Healing Paws Center, we recommend Vitamin D testing for:

• Pets with unexplained fatigue, inflammation, or mobility issues
• ***ALL CANCER PATIENTS  Dogs with lymphoma and other cancers have been found to have lower Vitamin D levels, and higher Vitamin D levels at diagnosis have been linked to longer survival times. (4)
• Those on non-standard diets
• Senior pets as part of routine checkups
• Pets recovering from injury, illness, or surgery  In a study of hospitalized dogs, those with low serum Vitamin D levels had a higher risk of death, making it a potential biomarker for overall health. (2)

The results tell us whether your pet is deficient, insufficient, or optimal, allowing us to tailor supplements and diet to your pet’s specific needs.

What If My Pet Is Deficient?

The good news is that Vitamin D levels can be corrected with:

• Vet-guided supplementation (important — overdosing can be extremely harmful!)
• Adjustments in diet, especially for pets on homemade or exotic proteins
• Re-testing to ensure safe, effective progress
• Supportive therapies for inflammation, muscle strength, or immune function

Caution: Do not give your pet human Vitamin D or over-the-counter supplements without veterinary guidance—overdosing can be toxic.

The Bottom Line

• Vitamin D is more than a vitamin — it’s a vital building block of your pet’s health. Testing it can uncover hidden imbalances before they become serious, helping your pet live a longer, stronger, and healthier life.
• If you’re interested in checking your pet’s Vitamin D levels, contact us today to schedule a wellness screening. A simple test could make a big difference!

Resources:

1. Parker, V. J., Harjes, L. M., Dembek, K. A., Young, G. S., Giacopuzzi, B., & Chew, D. J. (2017).
   Association of vitamin D metabolites with parathyroid hormone, fibroblast growth factor-23, calcium, and phosphorus in dogs with various stages of chronic kidney disease. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 31(3), 791–798. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.14662
2. Gow, A. G., Else, R., Evans, H., Berry, J., Herrtage, M. E., & Mellanby, R. J. (2011). Vitamin D status is associated with disease severity and survival in dogs with chronic illness. PLoS ONE, 6(1), e14513. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0014513
3. Sharp, C. R., Selting, K. A., & Ringold, R. (2015).
   The effect of diet on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in dogs. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 99(2), 239–246. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpn.12225
4. Selting, K. A., Sharp, C. R., Ringold, R., & Knouse, J. (2016).
   Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in dogs – correlation with health and cancer. BMC Veterinary Research, 12, 136. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12917-016-0776-3
5. Backus, R. C., Boretti, F. S., Lutz, T. A., & Reusch, C. E. (2013). Vitamin D metabolism in dogs and its association with health outcomes: A review. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 74(9), 1159–1166. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.74.9.1159
6. Kraus et al., 2014 – A study published in Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that dogs with congestive heart failure had significantly lower Vitamin D levels, and those with lower levels experienced more adverse cardiac events.
7. Selting, K. A., Sharp, C. R., Ringold, R., & Knouse, J. (2016). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in dogs – correlation with health and cancer. BMC Veterinary Research, 12, 136. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12917-016-0776-3

The post Why You Should Check Your Dog’s Vitamin D Levels: The Overlooked Key to Lifelong Health appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

Treating Pet Allergies Naturally

As pet owners, watching our furry friends suffer from allergies can be heart-wrenching. Whether it’s from seasonal changes, food sensitivities, or environmental factors, allergies can lead to persistent itching, digestive issues, and overall discomfort!

While conventional veterinary medicine often relies on medications (like Apoquel or the infamous Cytopoint injections) and steroid treatments (like prednisone and dexamethasone injections), holistic veterinary medicine offers a comprehensive approach to managing allergies by addressing the root causes and treating the body as a whole.

Understanding Allergies in Pets

Allergies in pets typically manifest in several ways:

1. REPEATED Skin irritations or infections or hot spots or rashes – this is seen in pets who are SUPER ITCHY and constantly scratching or licking themselves.
2. REPEATED Ear infections
3. Gastrointestinal upset. – Think about it – 90% of our immune system IS in our gut! So it makes sense that any type of immune response could result in diarrhea or any other GI sign!
4. Much, much more!

The Holistic Approach to Pet Allergies

Holistic veterinary medicine integrates various practices that aim to treat the whole animal rather than just the symptoms.

Here is a brief list of the holistic practices that we currently utilize:

1. Diet and Nutrition

Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing allergies!  We often recommend a holistic diet tailored to a pet’s specific needs. This might include:

• SPECIFIC PROTEINS: Identifying and removing allergenic ingredients from the diet to pinpoint food sensitivities.
• HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS: Ensuring the diet is free from fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives that might exacerbate allergies.
• ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS : Incorporating ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties!

2. Supplements

Supplements can support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Some commonly recommended supplements used in holistic medicine include:

• Probiotics: To support gut health, which is linked to immune function and allergic responses.
• Herbal Remedies: These can naturally soothe skin irritations and support overall wellness.
• Fish Oils: To reduce inflammation and improve skin health.

3. Veterinary Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance.

For pets with allergies, acupuncture can:

• Reduce Inflammation: By improving circulation and promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
• Enhance Immune Function: By stimulating the body’s regulatory systems.

4. Homeopathy

Homeopathic remedies are based on the principle of “like cures like,” using highly diluted substances to trigger the body’s healing responses. A holistic vet might use remedies to:

• Address Specific Allergy Symptoms: Such as itching or diarrhea.
• Support Overall Health: By boosting the pet’s resilience and reducing sensitivity to allergens.

5. Environmental Modifications

Holistic care often includes recommendations for reducing environmental allergens.   Individual recommendations always depend on the environment that the pet is exposed to on a daily basis – from daycare, to carpet, to grassy areas! 

6. Veterinary Ozone Therapy

Ozone therapy involves administering ozone (O₃), a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms, into the body. The therapy utilizes the unique properties of ozone to promote healing and boost overall health.  

Ozone therapy:

• Targeting underlying inflammation: A BIG component of ANY allergies is the immune system in overdrive!
• Boosting the immune system: Ozone therapy stimulates the immune system to reduce the severity of allergic reactions. Ozone therapy could be administered subcutaneously, rectally, or topically depending on what is going on with the pet.
• Enhancing Skin Health: Ozone has anti-microbial properties that can eliminate infections and promote healthy skin recovery.

Conclusion

Managing pet allergies doesn’t have to be a one-dimensional process. Holistic veterinary medicine offers a rich array of tools and strategies to support your pet’s health in a comprehensive way. By focusing on diet, supplements, acupuncture, homeopathy, environmental changes, and ozone therapy, you can help your furry friend find relief and improve their overall quality of life.

If allergies are causing your pet distress, call us! We can help!

The post Treating Pet Allergies Naturally appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

You can Treat Kidney Disease in Dogs and Cats Naturally

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease and kidney failure in dogs and cats are extremely common diseases in dogs and cats. The kidneys in pets function to help to filter water as well as other nutrients in the body.

How do you know if your dog or cat has kidney disease?

Tests that your veterinarian can utilize to evaluate your dog’s kidneys are bloodwork (specifically looking at the Creatinine and the Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), urinalysis (analysis of the urine and how it concentrates), urine culture (culture of the urine to check for bacterial growth), and belly X-rays/ ultrasound.

Kidney disease appears in pets once at least 25% of the kidneys are no longer functioning.

Signs of kidney disease include but are not limited to:

• Increased drinking and urination
• Weight loss
• Decreased energy
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting and nausea
• Clear urine
• And more . . . .

What are some ways to treat dog and cat kidney disease naturally?

Holistic treatments for kidney disease in dogs can include:

1. Veterinary acupuncture and acupressure

Veterinary acupuncture for treatment of kidney disease in dogs can increase blood flow to the kidney to promote healing, increase appetite and energy, and decrease nausea. Renal disease in dogs and cats can make them feel terrible – which makes them not want to eat.

The goal of acupuncture for the dog is always to encourage the body to heal itself.

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) theory of kidney disease involves the idea of moving Qi (energy) to the area of damaged or stagnated Qi. Your holistic veterinarian will be able to select acupuncture points such as BL-23 (Bladder-23), BL-39 (Bladder-39), KID-3 (Kidney-3), and ST-36 (Stomach-36).

2. Subcutaneous ozone therapy

Subcutaneous ozone therapy involves hyper-saturation of saline with ozone. Ozone rapidly breaks down into oxygen within the body. Thus, subcutaneous ozone therapy allows your holistic veterinarian to increase the level of oxygen with your dog’s body. Increased oxygen levels allow for improved mitochondrial function, and improved cell growth within the body.

3. Herbal therapy

Herbal therapy for treatment of kidney disease in dogs utilizes specific Chinese herbal blends to support the kidney’s functions. These herbs could included Rehmannia blends, Hindquarter Weakness, and much, much more.

4. Food therapy.

Food therapy for treatment of kidney disease in dogs allows the body to utilize foods that are naturally nutritious for the damaged kidneys. Particular foods can include kidney beans, brown rice, and more!

Your holistic veterinarian will select these foods based on the underlying Traditional Chinese Veterinary Pattern.

These holistic therapies for dogs can be combined with Western medications and more. At Healing Paws Center, we have treated many cases with integrative care (combining Western and Eastern therapies) to obtain the optimal results.

We recommend starting acupuncture, and all of these holistic methods as soon as possible!

The post Treating Kidney Disease Naturally appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

Did you know laser therapy can help your cat or dog in a number of ways?  Treating your dog’s pain naturally . . .

Laser therapy provides a non-invasive, NON-PAINFUL, drug free way to help your pet.  Laser therapy sessions are cumulative – this means that more than one session will most likely be necessary to achieve the best results.  We typically recommend treatments 2-3 times per week depending on the treatment plan.

Laser therapy can be used in conjunction with acupuncture, massage therapy, magnetic pain therapy, hydrotherapy, and more. Utilizing multiple modalities increases the likelihood of successful outcomes for pets.

Laser therapy is also called “photobiomodulation (PBMT)” and “Low-level laser therapy (LLT).” Laser stands for “light amplification of stimulated emission of radiation” (LASER).

Laser therapy have been around for decades in veterinary medicine.  There are over 4,000 published studies on low level laser therapy.

What is Laser Therapy?

Laser therapy for dogs and cats is used to reduce pain and inflammation.  Additionally, laser therapy:

• Releases endorphins
• Improves blood flow
• Improves nerve function
• Decreases pain
• Repairs tissue
• Relaxes muscles

It can also be used to treat:

• Wounds – like hot spots, or skin infections
• Arthritis (3)
• Hip or elbow dysplasia
• Intervertebral disc disease / back problems (1)
• Lick granuloma
• Ear infections
• Joint pain
• Sprains/ strains – tendon and ligament injuries
• Cranial cruciate ligament rupture
• Gingitivitis
• Surgical wound healing (4)
• Degenerative Myelopathy (2)
• Burns
• Feline interstitial cystitis
• Stomatitis
• Fracture healing
• And much much more!

How does laser therapy work?

Laser therapy utilizes precise frequencies to stimulate cell to release ATP – the natural energy of the body.  Laser therapy reduces bradykinin, interleukin 1, and several other inflammatory mediators (5).

There are different classes of laser – your veterinarian can explain each class and which is preferred for pets.  Laser can differ by wavelength, power, duration, and even dosage.  These settings are very important as they can affect the depth of penetration of the laser therapy.

Why does my dog need to wear goggles?

In order to protect your pet’s retina, we recommend the pet wear our cool protective goggles (“doggles”).  We also have protective glasses for anyone in the vicinity.

“Doggles” or “Dog laser glasses” are utilized (and quite stylish!)!

Will it hurt my pet?

No!  This laser is a cold laser – your pet will not feel any sensation during the treatment.

We typically perform the therapy during the pet’s acupuncture session.  The pet is typically lying on one of our mats while sleeping or enjoying a peanut butter filled kong.  Laser therapy sessions take about 4-7 minutes depending on the number of sites to be treated.

Do we need to shave or clip my pet’s hair?  Does my pet need to be sedated for laser therapy for dogs?

Absolutely not!  We do not need your pet’s hair to be shaved/clipped or any sedation on board.  Your pet will be ready to go home right after the session.

Are there any contra-indications?

Research is still on-going but we do not recommend this therapy for animals with cancer or for pregnant animals.

CASE FEATURE:

Buddy’s Tale: Buddy presented for an acute non-healing wound on his neck.  No matter what the owner tried, the wound would absolutely not heal!  With frequent laser therapy and topical ozonated saline therapy, Buddy healed very quickly!  Take a look at the photos below to see for yourself how laser therapy (and other holistic therapies) can help your dog in Fort Lauderdale:

Buddy’s hot spot/ wound BEFORE laser therapy and other holistic therapies

Buddy’s hot spot/wound AFTER laser therapy treatments and holistic therapies

Roxy’s Tale: Roxy presented for a suspected partial cranial cruciate ligament tear (like an ACL in people).  Her owner elected conservative management.  With regular pet acupuncture, physical therapy for dogs, great holistic supplements, and laser therapy for dogs, she is now hiking and running around!

Roxy Jumping After Her Laser Therapy

Resources:

1. Bruno et al. (2020). Perilesional photobiomodulation therapy and physical rehabilitation in post-operative recovery of dogs surgically treated for thoracolumbar disk extrusion. BMC Ves Res. 16 (1).
2. Miller et al. (2020). Retrospective observational study and analysis of two different photobiomodulation therapy protocols combined with rehabilitation therapy as therapeutic interventions for canine degenerative myelopathy. Photobiomodulation photomed laser surg. 38 (4): 195 – 205.
3. Looney et al. (2018). A randomized blind placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) on canine elbow osteoarthritis. Can Vet J. 59 (9): 959 – 966.
4. Wardlaw et al. 2019. Laser therapy for incision healing in 9 dogs. Front Vet Sci. 29: 5
5. Miller L.A. (2017). Musculoskeletal disorders and osteoarthritis. Laser Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: Photobiomodulation. Ames, IA: John Wiley and Sons: 132 – 149.

The post Laser Therapy for Dogs in Fort Lauderdale appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

How Veterinary Rehabilitation Can Help Obese Dogs

Click here to read Dr. Jessie’s article in Innovative Care Journal

Click link or image above to read Dr. Jessie’s article in Innovative Care Journal.

The post Featured Innovative Care Journal Article Written By Dr. Jessie appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

You Can Treat Dog’s Laryngeal Paralysis Naturally

My dog’s bark is gone and he breathes really loudly.  Is it laryngeal paralysis “lar par”?  How do I know?

Laryngeal Paralysis has very serious symptoms including heavy panting and difficulty breathing. Fortunately, it is possible to treat laryngeal paralysis in dogs naturally at our Fort Lauderdale clinic!

Lar Par is common in older dogs.

What is Laryngeal Paralysis?

The laryngeal muscles control the larynx which helps close the trachea.  If the nerves are weak, the larynx cannot function well.  The larynx protects the dog’s airway.  When it becomes weak or paralyzed, the dog cannot breathe properly.  Sometimes, the ability to eat and drink can also be affected.

How do you know if your dog has laryngeal paralysis?

Signs of laryngeal paralysis include:

• Coughing
• Very noisy breathing or heavy panting
• Trouble eating and drinking
• Change in barking or a loss of barking
• Breathing issues – you may even see your pet turn blue due to respiratory distress.

What are some ways to treat dog laryngeal paralysis naturally?

Fortunately, it is possible to treat dog laryngeal paralysis naturally!

1. Veterinary Acupuncture

Acupuncture reactivates the nerves of the larynx which helps it function.  Dr. Jessie is a Certified Acupuncturist and even teaches at the prestigious Chi Institute.  There is GREAT research on this !

2. Herbal Therapies

Herbal therapies help support veterinary acupuncture therapies.  With herbal therapies on board, a veterinary acupuncturist may be able to space out the time between acupuncture appointments.

3. Weight loss

Weight loss will help lessen the burden on the larynx, as well as improve the entire health of the pet.

What dogs develop laryngeal paralysis?

Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or other large breed dogs, most commonly develop this syndrome.

Testing for dog laryngeal paralysis

Testing may include blood test, X-rays, or sedated laryngeal exam.  Advanced diagnostics such as CT or MRI scan may be recommended.

Be sure to start acupuncture and more as soon as possible!

Case Feature:

Bodhi (Featured below) came to see us when his mom noticed that his bark was gone and his panting had become so very, very loud.  After 3 treatments and herbal therapies, this is what mom sent us . . .

“I just wanted to let you know that Bodhi tried to bark today!  He’s getting his bark back!  I haven’t heard him bark in weeks and he loves having “singing” sessions! Thank you so much! – Bodhi’s mom

Bodhi during his acupuncture therapies

He has improved so much!

Bodhi is a sweetheart.

The post Treating Laryngeal Paralysis Naturally appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

What is pet insurance?

Affordable pet insurance has been a deep passion of mine since before Veterinary School.  I want to take this time to educate you on the importance of pet insurance for your dog or cat or dog health insurance.

Pet insurance policies tend to include deductibles, copayments, and premiums.  HOWEVER, unlike human medical insurance, it is a reimbursement model – meaning YOU pay out of pocket up front to your veterinarian, and then the insurance company pays YOU back.

The cost of pet insurance depends on several factors including pet’s breed, age, cost of veterinary care in your area, as well as what YOU choose as the plan.

Is pet insurance the same as a medical plan?

Pet insurance is NOT the same as a medical or health plan for your pet, such as the Banfield Wellness plan or another plan.

They differ by ONE MAIN FEATURE – you can take pet insurance ANYWHERE YOU GO – TO ANY HOSPITAL AND TO ANY STATE.    

The same tends not to be true with a medical or health plan.

For example, if it is 2 A.M., and you need to take your pet to the emergency room (as your veterinarian’s office is most likely closed) because your pet is sick or hurt, pet insurance can go WITH YOU!  The same tends not to be true with a medical or health plan.

Is it worth it to have pet insurance?  Is Pet Insurance Worth the Cost?

The answer is . . . it depends!  If you have set up a bank account for your pet already, or you have a significant amount of savings (keep in mind that average cost for a pet that has suffered a car accident ranges from $1200 to over $5000), then pet insurance may not be right for you.

Personally, as a holistic veterinarian, I will NOT own a pet without pet insurance.  I know too much – I know how much a CT scan or MRI scan could cost and when it could be useful.  I know that seeing a veterinary specialist is costly – and I know that cancer surgery is expensive.  I never want to have to say no to veterinary care for my furry kids due to cost.  Never.

What is the best pet insurance?

The answer is . . . it depends!  I encourage you to CALL every pet insurance company you are considering.

Here are my top factors when evaluating a pet insurance company:

1. NO limits per year / No caps on Claim Payouts – some pet insurance companies have an “annual ceiling.” This means they will pay for ‘x’ amount per year, and no more.
   • My first dog, Duke, cost us over $10,000 one year in surgeries. I was happy that I only paid about $1,000 because we chose a company that did not have an annual ceiling.
2. NO exclusion of breed-specific conditions – your pet shouldn’t suffer lack of coverage because they were born with a certain genetic condition no one knew about.
3. Coverage for holistic, alternative, rehabilitative, and complementary care – this is important! As a holistic veterinarian, I prefer to reach for herbal therapies or other non-drug options before a drug.
4. Fast Claim Payout process
   • Reimbursement model means you will pay your veterinarian for the full amount, and then wait for the pet insurance company to pay YOU back.

I prefer to select a plan that covers accidents and illnesses to the maximum possibility.  I accept paying the basics including flea/tick/heartworm treatments or vaccinations, as long as the accidents and illnesses are covered.

Just as a side-note YOU should recognize that almost all pet insurance companies exclude pre-existing conditions.

What is super awesome for pet insurance plan to have?

One feature I discovered during my research that I fell in love with is the “Pre-approval Service.”  At this point in time, I have only found this with Trupanion Pet Insurance.

This means that I can get the estimate for the procedure from my veterinarian, submit it, and know how much will be reimbursed in several hours.  This is a stark contrast to waiting for several weeks for a check to come in the mail (don’t forget – you have to wait for the pet insurance’s evaluation of what will be covered!  It is a reimbursement model.).

How do I get affordable pet insurance?

I recommend reviewing www.petinsurancereview.com and CALLING the companies with set questions.

Ask for their written policies and review them – look at the limitations and exceptions.  You are the best advocate for your pet.

The post Pet Insurance for your Dog or Cat appeared first on Healing Paws Center.

Watch our awesome Dr. Jessie discuss COVID-19 and your pet . . .

COVID-19 downloadable document

The post What You Need to Know about Coronavirus / COVID-19 and Your Pet appeared first on Healing Paws Center.