š Arthritis in Dogs and Cats: How Acupuncture Can Help š
Did you know that osteoarthritis isnāt just a human condition? Our furry friends can suffer from it too! Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage cushioning the ends of bones in joints gradually wears down, causing pain and reduced mobility. If left unchecked, it can lead to bones rubbing directly against each other. šæš¶
āØ The Power of Acupuncture āØ
Acupuncture isnāt just a buzzwordāitās a scientifically-backed therapy that can stimulate cartilage repair in pets with knee osteoarthritis! Recent studies using MRIs show that within just four weeks, acupuncture significantly improves cartilage condition in critical knee regions. š¾ā¤ļø
Maintenance is Key š
For older pets and those with a history from orthopedic surgeries, regular maintenance acupuncture sessions are essential. They not only help maintain joint health but also support overall mobility and wellā.
Ask Baxter?! He loves his visits š
06/17/2024
If you havenāt been- this is amazing time to go! ššØ Art FOR Dogs Gallery Show! š¾āØ āWith interactive art, a dog selfie station, and a special area for your pup to create their own artwork, this is a must-visit event for you and your furry friend. All donations will go to support animal charities. š Starting June 15th, weekends 12-5 PM at Kimberly Sarah Photography, Portsmouth, NH. Letās create some pawsitive vibes together! š¶ā¤ļø ā
RECALL ALERT - TDBBS, LLC. is voluntarily recalling Best Bully Stick and Barkworthies branded Green Tripe Bully Sticks due to foreign material (metal) contamination.
āŖ Best Bully Stick branded product packaged in 2 lbs (UPC:816807016027)
āŖ Best Bully Stick branded product packaged in 5 lbs plastic bags (UPC: 816807016010)
āŖ Barworthies branded product packaged in 7oz plastic bags (UPC:816807015686)
Okay now itās my turn?
Guess my breed!
See acupetvet family events for more details ā¦. Coming soon!
- Archie, 7 months old
06/05/2024
šš¾ Today marks a special milestone for Acupetvet - our 8th year anniversary! šš¾
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all our amazing clients for your trust and support over the years. It has been an incredible honor to care for your beloved pets and be a part of your lives. Your loyalty and love for your furry friends inspire us every day.
Hereās to many more years of health, happiness, and wagging tails! Thank you for being a part of the our Acupetvet family. ā¤ļøš¶š±
06/04/2024
Last chance to guess Jenkins breed to win!
Results are in!
See acupetvet family page for more info!
05/31/2024
š± Cat Rehab: Itās a Thing! š
Believe it or not, you can actually do rehabilitation therapy with cats! š¾
We use their normal behaviorsālike kneading, climbing stairs, or even specific feeding habitsāto reinforce the actions we want them to perform. Itās all about turning those quirky cat antics into positive progress!
This is Sophie, 19 years old - Dr Wilsonās cat
Okay this isnāt the greatest form as Dr W just caught her in the act of eatingā¦ but this would be considered a weight shifting exercise š
Interested? Give us a call today!!
Stay tuned! More stories to come!
05/29/2024
Just a reminder- join our Acupetvet Family Page, Look for our contest and message us with your guess!!
You could win!
05/27/2024
We will be closed today in honor and remembrance of our fallen heroes.
05/22/2024
Someone is sleepyā¦
05/21/2024
So Jenkins got a DNA kit in the mail! He wants to know who can guess his breeds š
Interested? Join Acupetvet Family FB Events Page to learn more!
Librelaā¦.
You may have read a lot about librela online.
I caution you as there is a lot of misinformation out there. As a veterinarian I always hear about posts out there talking about ā this killed my dogā - whether it be a drug, food, etc.
Let me provide you with some info:
Librela is a drug ( lab made antibodies ) that binds to nerve growth factors. When this happens, the body than gets rid of this ā complexā so nerve growth factor can not function.
Nerve growth factor( NGF) is what is present in inflammation at joints. This NGF leads to more inflammatory pain. Librelaās role is to stop this from happening- decreasing pain in our dogs.
One thing I tell people is that NGF also has other roles in the bodyā¦ so we have to be careful in deciding who is a good candidate for this drug.
- NGF is also important for regulation of nerve pathways. It is important for growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons.
If I have a patient that may have a neurological issue- I discuss that there may be more risks.If it is a quality life concern and all other options have been tried, then we may choose this regardless.
NGF is also important for healingā¦ so if an animal just had surgery and we need the body to heal ( ie. A broken leg) , then we wait until healing is complete.
NGF is also important in other areas such as : heart health, brain function, reproductive health and immune system.
Although we see that NGF is important in so many things, we do know it has helped many patients in Europe ( has been out there for 2-3 years) and I personally have seen it prolong patients life and comfort.
I do think, however, we need to think carefully before using and look at that individualās overall health before utilizing it.
Re social media posts/groups about librela: One thing to recognize is that they have many dogs that have used it because of quality life issues, and the worsening signs might not necessarily be from the drug from the disease condition that they have. So please be careful what you read. I do not feel these pet owners are doing anything intentional to mislead people, but they truly want to help people by giving this information. The fact of the matter is though we do not know if that injection was the cause of that petās decrease of quality of life and comfortā¦it could have been related to something entirely different and was a coincidence.
Happy 14th birthday Frankie! Thanks for celebrating part of your day with us!
05/12/2024
05/10/2024
It is coming together! Canāt wait to see your pet portraits!
Paint nite is sold out! For those who missed this one, we will do it again!
For those signed up- See you at 3!
(Please carpool if you can)
05/05/2024
Congratulations Cleopatra!! You graduated!! ( Cleo said no to the grad hat though š)
Meet Cleopatra- she has a history of digestive issues, losing weight ( was 6 pounds when I first saw her). Was getting laser therapy for her digestive issues, also did acu laser ( lasered at her acupuncture points) She is now 10 pounds!!
She looks great, feels great!
āWe will miss you! But glad your feeling better!ā
05/03/2024
We had a cute visitor today.
She liked watching her older siblings get Acupuncture! What a cutie!
05/03/2024
This is so awesome! Not only is this an awesome article, but itās written by our own local Miss Behavior Training!
Please share! Great information in here
How do you know if it is time to talk to your veterinarian about behavioral medications?
05/01/2024
Maineās legalization of cannabis (ma*****na) has led to a surge in dog and cat toxicity cases at veterinary hospitals. Remember, while it may be legal for humans, cannabis can pose serious risks to our furry friends. Animals process many compounds differently than humans do, and as a result, many medications and foods that are safe for us are not safe for them. Keep edibles, joints, and other cannabis products out of reach, and be vigilant for signs of cannabis poisoning in pets.
Signs of intoxication in pets may include:
āŖļøUncoordinated behavior
āŖļøHyperactive or sleepy, disoriented, and/or very vocal behavior
āŖļøDilated pupils
āŖļøExcessive drooling
āŖļøUrinary incontinence
āŖļøSlow or fast heart rate
āŖļøSlowed breathing rate
If you suspect your dog has accidentally consumed cannabis, donāt wait! Call the Pet Poison Hotline immediately at 855-764-7661. Our emergency room is open 24/7/365, ready to help! š
04/30/2024
š¹ Did you know that rehabilitation can significantly improve the management of disc disease? Hereās how:
ā¢ Enhances flexibility to support spinal health
ā¢ Strengthens muscles to provide better spinal stability
ā¢ Reduces pain levels, enhancing overall quality of life
Invest in your health with rehabilitation today! šŖ
Contact us if your dog has back pain or disc problems and let us help!!
Look who is 39.6 pounds on his 6 month birthday!!
Congrats Maddie! You won an Acupetvet T shirt and a $25 Gift Card to the Goat Restaurant!
Join Acupetvet Family Page to learn about our next contest!
04/24/2024
This is great!
We are very excited to announce our first charitable organization for Art FOR Dogs Gallery show:
Morris Animal Foundation! These folks are amazing! OUR MISSION
Their mission is to bridge science and resources to advance the health of animals. Morris Animal Foundation improves and protects the health of animals through scientific innovation, education and inspiration. Founded by a veterinarian in 1948, we continue to be a science-driven organization, funding critical health studies for the benefit of all animals.
Morris Animal Foundation is a global leader in supporting studies to find solutions to serious health threats to animals. This donation is improving the health and quality of life for cats, dogs, horses and wildlife around the world.
Did you know about the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study
The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study is one of the largest, most comprehensive prospective canine health studies in the United States. The Studyās purpose is to identify the nutritional, environmental, lifestyle and genetic risk factors for cancer and other diseases in dogs. Each year, with the help of veterinarians and dog owners, the Foundation collects health, environmental and behavioral data on 3,000+ enrolled golden retrievers. https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/golden-retriever-lifetime-study
Please consider making your donation to them during the Art FOR Dogs Gallery show June 15 - July 14 Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
And a big thank you to Dr. Tasha Wilson of for introducing me to this incredible organization!
04/24/2024
Bentley came to Acupetvet after back surgery to correct a disc extrusion.
He had back pain, decreased back/spinal motion, and decreased strength in his hind limbs. Bentley also had a decreased awareness of where his hind limbs were.
His rehab program included the pulse electromagnetic bed, laser therapy, therapeutic exercise, and a progressive home exercise program.
We are excited to say : He met all of his goals, no longer has discomfort, is very strong and able to do high level exercise like a rock star! āļø Congratulations on graduation Bentley! šØāš
Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Acupetvet posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
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Congratulations to our recent graduates!!
š± Cat Rehab: Itās a Thing! š
Believe it or not, you can actually do rehabilitation therapy with cats! š¾
We use their normal behaviorsālike kneading, climbing stairs, or even specific feeding habitsāto reinforce the actions we want them to perform. Itās all about turning those quirky cat antics into positive progress!
This is Sophie, 19 years old - Dr Wilsonās cat
Okay this isnāt the greatest form as Dr W just caught her in the act of eatingā¦ but this would be considered a weight shifting exercise š
#CatRehab #FelineTherapy #CatBehavior #CatLovers
Interested? Give us a call today!!
Stay tuned! More stories to come!
Shannon is getting into shape , having a good time at Acupetvet
Did you knowā¦ Nearly 40% of all cats have clinical signs of Osteoarthritis ; 90% of cats over age 12 have evidence of arthritis on Xrays.
How would you know?
Look for hesitation in jumping?
Are they less active? Less interested in play?
Do you notice decrease in appetite? Grooming?
There are different options put there for cats including cold laser therapy and acupuncture.
Take a listen to our Monday Minute! Let us know if you have questions about your cat- comment below.
#MondayMinute #acupetvet #catarthritis
Monday minute with Dr Wilson!
( well technically a day late, but that eclipse really messed her up š)
#acupetvet #MondayMinute #caninerehabilitation #RehabExercises
Our Monday Minute!
Lynn, our physical therapist who is certified in canine rehab therapy, goes over how to do cookie stretches.
This is a great stretch for our dogs before and after exercise. This stretch also can be useful in evaluating pain along the back- if your dog stops going for the treat, don't force him/her to continue the stretch as this is most likely an indication of pain.
Let us know if you have any questions!
Have a great Monday!
#acupetvet #MondayMinute #caninerehabilitation
It is our Monday Minute with Dr Wilson!
Acupetvet recommends many at home exercises including massages for our patients.
Here is a special tip you can do at home with your pet- before and after surgery, after an injury, senior pets etc and its good for cats and dogs!
#drwilsonvet
#acupetvet
#caninerehabilitation
#MondayMinute
#dovernh
Had a wonderful time speaking with Lexi, a pet insurance agent. Thank you Lexi for joining me. Thank you all for your questions!
Want something new and exciting for your dog in our treadmill?! Hazel enjoys it! Ask Nichole more about it- these are available to buy before your session! We will put your petās name on it so you can use next time! #acupetvet #underwatertreadmill #sportdogs #dogsofinstagram #dogsofnh
Do you know the Acupetvet Team works with dogs that need some extra TLC for their appointments?
Dr Wilson has taken courses on cooperative care and will work closely with your trainers and behavioral vet. We love working as a team here to benefit your pet! #acupetvet #cooperativecaretraining #missbehaviordogtraining #eliotvet #caldervet #redpointydogtraining
Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday!! We will see you in the New Year!! ( We will be closed until Jan 2) #acupetvet #christmasdogsofinstagram #christmasdogphotos #christmaspets
Even Jenkins and Hazel get to go to @acupetvet ! They love going to their momās work! #acupetvet #lovedogs #dogcar #dogpeanutbutter #caninerehabilitation #dovernh
Did you hear the news?
There is a new monthly injection available to help alleviate pain! Dr Wilson and Lynn Low will be using this in conjunction with their acupuncture and rehab treatment to help improve their patient's comfort level.
Interested? Contact us now to see if your pet is a good candidate!
Note: To receive this injection, you must be a patient at Acupetvet. This precaution is in place because dogs and cats often feel significantly better afterward, and there's a risk they may overexert themselves, potentially leading to injury. Not a patient? Contact us today to see how we can help your pet!
#acupetvet #olddogsrule #librela #solensia
#acupetvetfamily #dovernh #dogacupuncture#k9rehabilitation #dogsofinstagram #catsofinstagram
Acupetvet is a acupuncture, rehabilitation pain management clinic ā providing acupuncture, cold laser therapy, nutritional consultation. These services can be offered in the comfort of a petās own home in NH and ME or in Acupetvetās unique facility that provides a āhome away from homeā atmosphere .
Acupetvet is owned and managed by a licensed veterinarian, Dr. Tasha Wilson. āAs a practicing veterinarian since 2005, I have seen many chronic and/or painful diseases that have decreased a patientās quality of life and an owner's bond with their beloved pet. I became passionate about researching other avenues to assist these pets; setting a goal to offer other prevention and treatment services. I work closely with your primary doctor and their treatment plan, blending their traditional medicine with these alternative treatments to help make your pet more comfortable and feeling better again.
How it all began...In 2010, Dr. Wilson started to look at other avenues available to your pets to help with prevention as well as treatment of diseases. She began focusing on pet nutrition; receiving more education in this field and started offering nutritional consultation to her patients. In 2016 Dr Wilson became trained and certified in medical veterinary acupuncture. As a result, Acupetvet was born in 2016 and focused on these two modalities. Dr Wilson continues to look at other options for pain relief and in 2017, started using cold laser therapy and saw amazing results! (See Wendyās story https://youtu.be/Y0O9C4qV0g4) Acupuncture and cold laser therapy, together or alone on patients can be used with arthritis, chronic inflammatory conditions- idiopathic sneezing, coughing, allergies, otitis, IVDD, cruciate injuries, and more. Acupuncture also is a great palliative care option with pets that have cancer. As Dr. Wilson continued to see more geriatric patients and arthritis, she decided to become certified in rehabilitation therapy and offer other ways to help with pain control and muscle strengthening.
Preventative Care!
Acupuncture and Cold Laser services are used for treatments of diseases, but also for preventative care. It is used often for agility and sport dogs before and after practice or competitions!
Dr Tasha Wilson enjoys taking the time to talk with you to discuss all options available to your pet, based on their symptoms and disease processes. ā I provide integrative veterinary consultations to owners. I offer a 45 minute to 1 hour appointment explaining disease processes and discuss why certain medication or nutrition changes were recommended by their primary veterinarian. We discuss their concerns and what the main goals of the treatment plan are. We will also talk about alternative therapies, nutrition or supplement options that may have not be discussed previously that can be used in to help the you achieve the goal they are looking for. ā
Better Quality of Life
My main services include: Acupuncture, Rehabilitation therapy, Integrative medicine consults including nutrition (I follow WSAVA nutrition assessment guidelines),and weight management consultations, and educational seminars for clients, staff, and local veterinary technician schools.
Further, I am now offering hospice consults and at-home euthanasia for my clients and those with veterinary referrals. A veterinary referral would entail a copy of the records with the notation of the disease process that is affecting their quality of life.