Scientifically Grounded, Integrative Veterinary Care

Acupuncture & Electroacupuncture

Acupuncture is a neurophysiologically active intervention with well-documented mechanisms of action. Acupoint stimulation engages the nervous system at peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal levels — triggering release of endogenous opioids and key neurotransmitters while activating descending pain inhibitory pathways and suppressing pro-inflammatory mediators such as COX-2, IL-1β, and IL-6.

Analgesic response is frequency-dependent: low-frequency EA (2–10 Hz) preferentially drives endorphin and enkephalin release, while higher frequencies recruit dynorphin and serotonin for an additive effect. EA also induces beneficial neuroplasticity that may prevent or reverse central sensitization caused by chronic neuropathic pain.

Clinically, acupuncture supports patients with degenerative joint disease, post-operative pain, neurological conditions, and chronic musculoskeletal disease — and can help reduce dependence on NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and anticonvulsants in patients where long-term systemic medication poses a risk. It can also be used proactively in younger patients before chronic pain becomes established.

I offer both dry needling (DN) and electroacupuncture (EA), used independently or within a broader multimodal pain protocol.

Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT)

PBMT uses red and near-infrared light (600–1100 nm) to trigger beneficial cellular responses without thermal damage. Light energy is absorbed by chromophores — primarily cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondrial electron transport chain — initiating a cascade that increases ATP production, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide, all of which support tissue repair and modulate inflammation.

Research has demonstrated three core clinical effects: pain reduction, modulation of the inflammatory response, and acceleration of tissue healing. PBMT has been shown to decrease PGE2 and COX-2 concentrations — sharing a therapeutic pathway with NSAIDs and corticosteroids — making it a valuable adjunct for patients who cannot tolerate systemic anti-inflammatory medications due to renal, hepatic, or gastrointestinal disease.

Clinically supported applications include post-surgical recovery (including TPLO), osteoarthritis, wound and soft tissue healing, lick granulomas, neurological conditions, and palliative pain management. PBMT works best as one component of a comprehensive, multimodal care plan.

Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal formulas are prescribed based on each patient's individual TCVM diagnosis and are designed to complement — not replace — your conventional treatment plan. They provide ongoing therapeutic support between sessions and are particularly useful in chronic disease management, palliative care, and cases where long-term pharmaceutical use may not be ideal.

Research has shown that TCVM herbal formulations meaningfully reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines — including IL-1β and TNF-α — while upregulating antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. Bioactive plant compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polysaccharides contribute to these anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.

All herbal compounds I prescribe are sourced from suppliers that meet current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) standards, ensuring verified purity, consistent composition, and safety for your patients.