Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine
At Honeydew Animal Clinic, we offer an integrative approach to veterinary care, combining conventional Western veterinary medicine with selected Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) techniques where appropriate.
TCVM takes a holistic approach to patient care, considering the animal as a whole and taking into account their individual health, lifestyle and clinical needs. When used alongside conventional veterinary medicine, TCVM may form part of an individualised treatment plan designed to support your pet’s comfort, mobility and overall wellbeing.
TCVM at Honeydew Animal Clinic is provided by Dr Cliff Meyer, who has a special interest in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.
TCVM Treatment Approaches
Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) encompasses several complementary treatment approaches, including Acupuncture, Tui-Na, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Food Therapy. These approaches may be used individually or in combination, depending on the individual patient and their treatment plan.
Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture involves the placement of fine, sterile needles at specific points on the body. It may be used alongside conventional veterinary treatment to help manage pain and support mobility and comfort in selected patients.
Acupuncture may be considered for conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain and certain musculoskeletal or neurological conditions.
Tui - Na
Tui-Na is a form of therapeutic massage using specific hand techniques. In veterinary patients, it may be incorporated into an integrative treatment plan to support mobility, comfort and musculoskeletal function.
Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine uses selected herbal ingredients, traditionally combined into specific formulas according to the individual patient. When recommended and monitored by a veterinarian trained in TCVM, herbal medicine may be used as part of an integrative approach to managing certain chronic or ongoing health conditions.
Food Therapy
Food Therapy considers the nutritional properties of different foods when developing dietary recommendations for an individual animal. It may be used alongside conventional nutritional advice as part of a broader TCVM treatment plan.
TCVM Rehabilitation
TCVM rehabilitation combines selected TCVM techniques with conventional veterinary care to support recovery and mobility. Depending on the individual patient, treatment may include acupuncture, Tui-Na and other appropriate TCVM approaches.
Rehabilitation may be considered for pets recovering from orthopaedic or spinal procedures, including stifle (knee), hip and spinal surgery. Each rehabilitation plan is tailored to the patient’s condition, recovery and individual needs.
Integrating TCVM Into Your Pet’s Care
TCVM can be incorporated alongside conventional veterinary medicine when appropriate. Our veterinarians consider your pet’s medical history, current condition and individual needs when determining whether TCVM may be suitable.
If you would like to find out whether TCVM could form part of your pet’s care, speak to our veterinary team to arrange a consultation.