Holistic Veterinary Medicine

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), although relatively new to the Western world, is a medical system that has been used in China to treat animals for thousands of years. Chinese Medicine is a complete body of thought and practice that can be traced back over two millennia in recorded history. Today it has evolved into a treatment system of complex formulas of herbs with specific uses.

The group of herbs in a formula complement each other and allow the formula to work with minimal side effects and in a way that supports the healthy and balance of the body.

Herbal treatments tend to be gentler than medication and may take longer to see clear results. Often a short course is all that is necessary for acute problems. However, chronic conditions may require several months of treatment to restore balance and wellness to the body. Herbs may often be combined with changes in diet and lifestyle as well as pet acupuncture to improve overall benefits.

What is Veterinary Tui-na?

Pronounced "twee naw", which literally means "pinch and pull," it refers to a wide range of Traditional Chinese Medicine therapeutic massage and body work. From a conventional medicine perspective, Tui-na can be thought of as corresponding to a combination of acupressure, conventional massage and chiropractic techniques.
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It can be used to soothe joints and sinews, promote blood circulation, strengthen the immune system and promote normal function of organs. Tui-na is most commonly used to treat acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions and is also useful as a preventative medicine therapy, because it promotes balance in the body. It can also be used in conjunction with and to enhance acupuncture and herbal treatments.

Meet Sue Skelding, DVM, CVTM

Dr. Sue Skelding graduated from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and has worked in small animal internal medicine, surgery and emergency veterinary medicine. Certified in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, she specializes in herbal medicine, Tui-na and food therapy and performs veterinary acupuncture services for dogs and cats.