Nutrition
With training in both Canine Nutrition and 5 Element Nutrition (from a TCM perspective), I find that the combination of the two concepts of nutrition has been invaluable in treating dogs.
Issues such as chronic skin complaints, ear infections and musculature conditions respond particularly well, when the Chinese Medicine aspect of foods for their “thermal energy/nature” is incorporated into the nutritional needs of each individual dog.
I believe that the diet will always vary, depending on the needs of the individual, the season/weather and the metabolism of each dog and therefore, rather than to focus on a set rule of how much a dog is fed, or an exact long term diet, the focus will always be on what your dog needs at this particularly time, knowing that this will change as the seasons and your dog changes.
Canine Acupuncture
Canine acupuncture is rooted in the philosophies of the East. They view the body as a delicate river system where vital energy, or qi, must flow freely for true wellness to flourish.
Within this river system, where vital energy, or qi, must flow freely for true wellness to flourish, ancient Eastern philosophies describe methods for addressing disruptions. When blockages occur—whether seen as physical tension or emotional stress—harmony is disrupted.
Within this holistic framework, acupuncture uses fine needles to precisely address specific energetic points. Modern science complements this view by explaining the physiological mechanisms at play. The insertion of needles stimulates nerve bundles and connective tissues, prompting a cascade of neurochemical responses. This interaction triggers the central nervous system to release potent, natural pain-relieving compounds like endorphins and serotonin, effectively engaging the dog's own intrinsic pain management system. Furthermore, the needles enhance local blood circulation and induce anti-inflammatory effects.
These concepts speak to nurturing the body's innate wisdom, aiming to restore equilibrium not just to muscle and bone, but to the very spirit, allowing a vibrant tide of harmony to wash over.
Canine Myofunctional Therapy
Canine myofunctional therapy (CMT) is a profoundly holistic modality that views a dog’s physical structure and vitality as an interconnected system of muscles, connective tissue, and energetic flow. It is the conscious, intuitive application of touch and movement to restore harmony and balance within the canine body.
Within this holistic framework, CMT doesn't merely address physical symptoms; it seeks to understand the root cause of discomfort or movement limitations. The therapist works deliberately with the soft tissues—the muscles and fascia—which are believed to store physical tension, emotional stress, and stagnant energy.
Through skilled techniques such as remedial massage, mindful stretching, and energetic release work, the practitioner facilitates the release of these deep-seated blockages. This intentional touch encourages the nervous system to shift into a deeply restorative state, allowing life-force energy to flow freely.
The ultimate goal of this integrative practice is to awaken the body's innate healing wisdom, supporting vitality, enhancing the mind-body connection, and restoring a natural state of grace and ease in movement.
Bowen Therapy
Canine Bowen Therapy (CBT) is a gentle, non-invasive holistic soft-tissue remedial technique that activates the body's profound self-healing mechanisms. Unlike massage, it involves specific, light-touch "rolling" moves over muscles, ligaments, tendons, and the surrounding connective tissue (fascia), with vital pauses between sequences to allow the body to process and respond.
This therapy primarily influences the fascia, the web-like connective tissue surrounding all internal structures. In a healthy state, fascia is supple and hydrated; injury or stress causes it to stiffen. The gentle moves stimulate this tissue, improving hydration and metabolic function, which helps to "reset" the body's structural blueprint.
Canine Bowen Therapy works with the subtle energy systems of the body, stimulating known acupuncture points and meridians to release energy blockages. This rebalancing of the life force allows energy, blood flow, and lymphatic drainage to improve, washing away toxins and aiding deep cellular healing.
By trusting the dog's innate wisdom and allowing them to guide the session, the therapy empowers the body to determine how it needs to heal itself, leading to improved vitality, mobility, and overall well-being.