Traditional Chinese Medicine Overview
Before modern medicine existed, an ancient form of medicine was readily practiced worldwide. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been around for thousands of years and originated in China. In a nutshell, TCM focuses on bringing the body back into harmony, which prevents illness from occurring.
Interestingly, you can find TCM practices worldwide. Bits and pieces have been sprinkled into different cultures, and most TCM practices are known as remedies and old wives’ tales. TCM is more than superstition. Science is proving that Chinese herbs, medicines and acupuncture really do prevent and treat ailments and illnesses even in dogs.
Check out our Traditional Chinese Medicine veterinarian’s series on TCM for dogs. Dr. Mittner explains Traditional Chinese Medicine simply.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine for Dogs?
Energy flows through a dog’s body, just like our own, in harmony. Sometimes, this energy becomes disrupted due to stress, change in temperature or change in climate. When a dog’s body is in disharmony, pet owners will notice their dogs seeking a cool or warm place to lie down. Some dogs will drink excessively, cough, seem unsettled or act oddly. This is disharmony within the body. Depending on a dog’s imbalance and element sign, TCM practitioners use Chinese herbs and acupuncture to bring the body back into balance.
My Experience With Traditional Chinese Medicine
While Traditional Chinese Medicine might sound a bit bizarre and “woo-woo,” it’s the real deal. For years, I assumed TCM was a complimentary modality filled with superstition and folklore. Oh, was I proven wrong quickly. Personally, TCM has helped my chronic back issues and anxiety immensely.
As for TCM and dogs, during an acupuncture session, I’ve witnessed my dog’s appetite bounce back within seconds after his first round of chemotherapy. Additionally, my personal dogs and clients’ dogs found tremendous relief from anxiety.
Benefits of Chinese Acupuncture
While personal testimonials work, scientific proof is better. Scientific data provides proof to science-based clinicians that Traditional Chinese Medicine does work for dogs. Many veterinary oncologists today are seeking acupuncture certification due to its benefits on their clients. After chemotherapy, acupuncture can bring the body back into harmony, improving appetite and well-being.
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Does Your Dog Need TCM?
All dogs are susceptible to changes in their environment, and stress is a major cause of imbalance. If your dog is anxious, your dog is acting differently, you’ve moved recently, you’ve added another dog to your household or your dog has a chronic illness, it’s worth a trip to a holistic veterinarian or Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner.
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As a dog trainer, many of my clients have noticed their dogs’ anxiety and stress greatly reduce once TCM practices were added to their behavior protocol. It’s important to understand, TCM isn’t a cure-all for all illnesses or ailments. TCM should be used with modern medicine.
How to Find a TCM Practitioner
Finding a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner can be challenging, but worth the effort. Our beloved Chinese medicine veterinarian is currently studying for her master’s degree at Chi Institute. When searching for a TCM practitioner, expect to drive a couple of hours, as many are located in larger cities. Once a Chinese medicine vet examines your dog and creates a protocol, he or she can directly ship needed supplements and Chinese herbs to your home.
If searching for acupuncture, you may find acupuncture certified general practice veterinarians in your area. You can also ask your chosen Chinese medicine practitioner for local acupuncture recommendations. Check out a few tips on finding a qualified acupuncture holistic veterinarian near you.
Which element personality is your dog? Both of my dogs are “heart” dogs. 🙂